The incidence of the eye disease glaucoma is expected to rise by 33% in Ireland over the coming decade, eye health organisations have warned at the start of World Glaucoma Week.

The Association of Optometrists Ireland, the Irish College of Ophthalmologists and NCBI, the national sight loss agency, have stressed that that treatment for glaucoma works very well if detected early and usually involves eye drops alone.

Glaucoma has few symptoms in its early stages and the only way to detect it is through regular eye examinations.

At a late stage, glaucoma is irreversible and results in sight loss and blindness. More information is available at www.eyedoctors.ie.

Association of Optometrists Optometric Advisor Lynda McGivney Nolan said the key message, particularly for older people, is to get tested regularly.

"The theme of World Glaucoma Week is 'Don't let Glaucoma Darken your Life'. We are encouraging people to pass on this message and once you are over 50 to get eye tests every two years."

It is estimated that three per cent of people over the age 50 have Glaucoma. The symptoms are reduced peripheral (side) vision.

Glaucoma is caused by problems with the fluid in the eye.

The test to detect glaucoma is carried out as part of a routine eye examination given by every optometrists, or eye specialist.

To mark World Glaucoma Week in Ireland, over 200 opticians across the country are offering free glaucoma testing and free advice from March 12 - 17.

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