Don't lose sight of the diabetes threat

Date published: 11 June 2018


The team at Specsavers in Oldham is raising awareness this Diabetes Week (June 11-17) as, according to research, 4,400 people in Oldham are at risk of losing their sight due to diabetes.

Olympic rower Sir Steve Redgrave CBE is joining forces with Specsavers and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to warn of the risks of blindness linked to the condition.

Throughout the week, Specsavers in Oldham will be fundraising for RNIB and raising awareness of the importance of eye tests in detecting indicators of health conditions.

The campaign follows Sir Steve admitting that losing his sight is one of his biggest worries - as his diabetes means he is up to 20 times more likely to lose his sight than those without the condition.

Sir Steve said: "Going blind is, unfortunately, a very real threat for me.

"Until I was diagnosed with the condition, I was totally unaware of its implications on sight and having lived with diabetes for more than 20 years now, I can’t stress enough the importance of regular eye tests at your opticians and check-ups at the nearest diabetic screening programme

"It’s great to see the Specsavers store in Oldham taking part in the fundraising and raising money during Diabetes Week. 

"Since being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I’ve learnt how important it is to get regular eye checks to detect signs of diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness. 

"The eyes are a window to general health so visiting your optician should be part of your routine for staying fit and healthy."

Sophie Castell, Director of Relationships at RNIB, said: "Sadly, all too often, people with diabetes can lose their sight due to complications.

"Yet with early detection through regular eye tests and specialist diabetic eye screening followed by timely treatment, sight loss due to diabetic retinopathy can be prevented.

"We’re so grateful for the support of Specsavers’ staff."

Research supported by RNIB reveals that London, Manchester and Liverpool are among the UK cities at greatest risk of blindness due to diabetic retinopathy.

Catherine Hughes, store director at Oldham, added: "Many people are unaware that eye tests are not only critical for your eyes, but your wider health too.

"At Specsavers, we offer digital retinal photography for free as part of a standard eye test for customers aged over 40.

"This takes a detailed picture of the back of your eye and the microcirculation of blood – helping to highlight indicators of diabetes that need addressing alongside the diabetic eye screening programme."