An academic paper commissioned by Glaucoma UK has revealed that the number of glaucoma cases is set to increase by hundreds of thousands in the UK in the coming decades.

The research has received national media coverage, including on The Guardian website. The report shows cases rising from 1.02 million in 2025 to more than 1.61 million by 2060, driven by an ageing population, particularly those over 75, and a growing number of cases from higher-risk ethnic groups.

Raising awareness and vital role of community optometry

Welcoming the research, Paul Morris, director of Professional Advancement at Specsavers, says: ‘Specsavers remains committed to raising awareness of the need for regular eye tests, as early detection is critical to preventing avoidable glaucoma-related sight loss.

‘We continue to focus on higher-risk groups through campaigns such as The Auntie Army. This Specsavers initiative was fronted by TV personality Brenda Edwards with guidance from Glaucoma UK, to raise awareness in African-Caribbean communities who are up to four times more likely to develop glaucoma, and potentially at a younger age.

Expand community glaucoma services to meet patient need

He adds: ‘This research also reinforces the need for services that can meet rising demand. Expanding community glaucoma services delivered by local optometrists is part of the solution for patients and for the NHS.

'Our optometrists support patients with suspected and diagnosed glaucoma every day across the country – and are ready and able to do even more.’