New research predicts that at least 1.6 million people in the UK will be living with glaucoma by 2060, a 60% increase from the current estimated 1.1 million cases. The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, highlights a 'demographic timebomb' driven by an ageing population and growing ethnic diversity.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide but is often asymptomatic until later stages. Researchers from University College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital used the latest census data to estimate that over 1 million people currently have the condition, equivalent to 3% of those over 40. Among people of African descent, the rate is 4%, rising to 11% in those over 85.
Lead author Professor Paul Foster stressed the need for annual eye checks from middle age onwards and called for awareness campaigns targeting underserved groups. 'Late diagnosis comes with a higher risk of sight loss and higher costs of care; over 40% of glaucoma patients in the UK experience vision loss that could have been prevented with earlier diagnosis and treatment,' he said.
The study, commissioned by Glaucoma UK, underscores the need to expand ophthalmology services. Joanne Creighton, chief executive of Glaucoma UK, said: 'This is a demographic timebomb, and we need serious planning and action now to prepare to diagnose, treat, and support these future patients.'
