Get regular eye checks to maintain good health

In the lead-up to National Diabetes Week (July 14-20), optical retailer OPSM is urging Australians to have their eyes tested.

While experts warn the number of Australians diagnosed with diabetes will increase in the next few years, diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic illness and can significantly affect the eyes as well as general health.

Unknown to most people, regular eye checks can help detect issues early using ultra-wide digital retinal scans and optical coherence tomography.

With up to an estimated 500,000 undiagnosed diabetics in Australia currently, optometrists say it’s important to attend regular check-ups to maintain good health.

“Many Australians aren’t aware of the link between diabetes and your eyesight, that’s why we’re urging local residents to get their eyes tested as part of National Diabetes Awareness Week,” said Hayley Birch, optometrist at OPSM Waurn Ponds “At OPSM, we invest in ultra-wide digital retinal scanners which provide a 200-degree view of the retina, allowing us to view 80 per cent of the retina and help us identify concerns ike diabetic retinopathy.”

Rowan Prendergast, owner and optometrist at OPSM Waurn Ponds, said diabetics are at greater risk of developing diabetic retinopathy which can cause severe vision loss and blindness.

“Early detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care of diabetic eye diseases can help prevent vision loss,” he said.

“Regular eye exams can help identify symptoms of wider health concerns early, often leading to awareness, treatment and prevention of problems. We recommend adults should visit their optometrist at least once every 24 months to ensure their eyes and general health remain in top condition.”

If you have any questions or concerns, book an eye test at OPSM Waurn Ponds by phoning 52439288 or visiting opsm.com.au.