Simple changes you can make to reduce the risk of eye disease

The World Health Organization estimates that over 80 per cent of all vision impairment around the world can be prevented and even cured, writes Shahina Pardhan, professor of optometry at Anglia Ruskin University.

- Shahina Pardhan, professor of optometry at Anglia Ruskin University.

Reducing the risk of eye diseases involves adopting a combination of lifestyle changes, protective measures and regular eye care. Here are a few ways you can look after your eyes in 2026.

1. Have regular eye tests

Many eye diseases don't have symptoms - at least, initially. Glaucoma, for example, will cause irreversible damage to the eye if not picked up early enough as it damages the peripheral visual field to start with. People tend not to notice and merely compensate for this loss of peripheral vision by moving their heads more.

Eye disease linked to diabetes also causes irreversible damage to the eyes without much noticeable vision loss as it damages the small blood vessels in the eye.

Going for an eye test with a qualified optometrist will enable them to detect eye diseases and refer you to a specialist if needed. Early detection of changes in the eye due to diabetes will reduce the risk of blindness by 60-90 per cent.

And a visit to the optometrist does not necessarily mean you have to fork out for expensive new glasses if your vision hasn't changed. People in the UK qualify for free NHS eye tests if they are over 60 or under 18 years, have a family history of glaucoma, or receive certain state benefits.

2. Check your eyes at home