Regular eye exams are as essential as regular trips to the dentist, eye experts have insisted.

This week is Healthy Eyes Awareness Week, and according to the Association of Optometrists Ireland (AOI) and the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians (FODO) Ireland, everyone should have an eye test at least every two years.

"Having an eye test at least once every two years is just as essential as a regular trip to the dentist to check that you or your children are in good health. An eye exam is not just to determine if you need glasses or contact lenses, it is a vital health check that can lead to the prevention of serious eye conditions," explained AOI chief executive, Sean McCrave.

He pointed out that sight-related problems are on the increase due to an ageing population, and early diagnosis of such problems is crucial.

"An optometrist is ideally placed to provide the care which people need, be it reassurance, fitting glasses or contact lenses, treatment of routine conditions, or monitoring of an existing condition," Mr McCrave noted.

Meanwhile, according to FODO Ireland executive chairperson, Garvan Mulligan, research suggests that over half of people in Ireland have not had an eye exam in the last two years.

"This is the recommended period between check-ups. If at any stage people notice changes in the appearance of the eye, pain or discomfort, they should see their local optical practice without delay.

"Children should also have an eye exam at least once every two years. Poor vision impacts on children's learning in school, but this can be easily avoided through timely diagnosis," Mr Mulligan said.

By 2020, an estimated 271,996 people are expected to suffer with some form of vision impairment - a big increase from 2010's estimated figure of 224,832.

In 2020, the cost of vision problems to the economy is expected to be around €2.7 billion. However, 50% of visual impairment can be corrected if diagnosed and treated correctly and promptly.

This Healthy Eyes Awareness Week, people who have not had their eyes checked in the last two years, are being encouraged to visit their local optical practice for an examination. Information and promotions will be available nationwide as part of the campaign, which runs from January 15-21.

For more information on this event, click on the Healthy Eyes website here and via the campaign's Twitter page @healthyeyes2018.