In the lead-up to National Diabetes Week (July 14-20), optical retailer OPSM is urging Australians to have their eyes tested.<\/p>\n
While experts warn the number of Australians diagnosed with diabetes will increase in the next few years, diabetes is Australia\u2019s fastest growing chronic illness and can significantly affect the eyes as well as general health.<\/p>\n
Unknown to most people, regular eye checks can help detect issues early using ultra-wide digital retinal scans and optical coherence tomography.<\/p>\n
With up to an estimated 500,000 undiagnosed diabetics in Australia currently, optometrists say it\u2019s important to attend regular check-ups to maintain good health.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany Australians aren\u2019t aware of the link between diabetes and your eyesight, that\u2019s why we\u2019re urging local residents to get their eyes tested as part of National Diabetes Awareness Week,\u201d said Hayley Birch, optometrist at OPSM Waurn Ponds<\/p>\n
\u201cAt 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 like diabetic retinopathy.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cEarly detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care of diabetic eye diseases can help prevent vision loss,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cRegular 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
\neyes and general health remain in top condition.\u201d<\/p>\n
If you have any questions or concerns, book an eye test at OPSM Waurn Ponds by phoning 5243 9288 or visiting opsm.com.au.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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\u2019s fastest growing chronic illness and can significantly affect the eyes as well as general health. […]<\/p>\n