Specsavers launches glaucoma awareness initiative

Specsavers has launched a new initiative which seeks to raise awareness of the importance of eye tests, particularly for people from African-Caribbean communities.

The initiative, which was informed by advice and guidance from Glaucoma UK, highlights that people from African-Caribbean communities have an up to four-times increased risk of developing glaucoma, and may develop it earlier in life.

New research commissioned by Specsavers found that adults from African-Caribbean backgrounds are a third more likely to have avoided or delayed a health appointment, including GP, hospital, and eye appointments, often due to feeling nervous or anxious.

The research found that, for one in five people, it has been two years or longer since their last eye check, and for one in 10, they have never had one.

Robyn Asprey, development manager at Glaucoma UK, said: “The number of people living with glaucoma is expected to increase by 44% between 2015 and 2035, with some people at a higher risk of developing the disease.”

“People from African-Caribbean communities are up to four times more likely to get glaucoma – and although it’s more common later in life, it can affect people of all ages. That is why we need to raise awareness of glaucoma among higher risk communities and ensure people can access the eye care they need, in an equitable and timely manner,” Asprey continued.

Specsavers’ new initiative encourages self-appointed ‘aunties’ to talk to their friends, family, and loved ones about protecting their eye health through regular sight tests.

The research by Specsavers found that four in five adults from African-Caribbean communities in Britain agree that advice from older, esteemed women in their community would influence decisions about their health.

A further 72% said receiving health advice from someone with a similar cultural background was important to them, while 72% of respondents from an African-Caribbean background said they would always take advice from an ‘auntie’ seriously.

The initiative features a video mission briefing from television presenter, singer and actress, Brenda Edwards.

The Loose Women panellist commented: “Aunties have been praying, cooking, and looking after their communities forever. Now it’s time for them to tell their loved ones to get an eye test because that’s who they will listen to.”

Edwards noted that her own family has a history of glaucoma, adding: “I’m very aware of how important eye tests are.”

Sharing a message to the public, she added: “Please do as your auntie says and book one today, even if you think you can see perfectly fine. I’m not asking now, I’m telling you – pass the message on.”

The initiative forms part of a wider project in partnership with Glaucoma UK to bring eye tests to people at higher risk of glaucoma, including those of African-Caribbean heritage, through community outreach.