Oxfordshire women urged to act on avoidable sight loss

Women are being urged to prioritise their eye health this April during Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, amid concerns that many across Oxfordshire could be affected by avoidable sight loss.

According to the London Cataract Centre, 3.5 million people in the UK are living with cataracts.

Women are particularly at risk due to longer life expectancy and hormonal changes.

Melanie Chak, consultant ophthalmologist at Newmedica Oxfordshire, said: “Here in Oxfordshire, we’re seeing first-hand the difference that timely access to treatment can make.

“Cataract surgery is quick, safe and highly effective, yet too many people are living with poor vision longer than they need to.

“At Newmedica Oxfordshire, we take the time to guide every patient through their journey, from their first consultation to recovery, making sure they feel informed, comfortable and supported throughout.

“This Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, we’re encouraging women to put their eye health first.

“If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, don’t put it off – getting assessed could make a huge difference to your quality of life.”

Cataracts are a common condition in people over 65 and cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, resulting in blurred or dimmed vision.

Around 29 per cent of people in Oxfordshire are in this age group.

Newmedica Oxfordshire is encouraging women over 60 to seek early treatment for cataracts, which can be managed quickly and effectively with surgery.

Cataract surgery is currently the only effective treatment for cataracts.

It involves removing the eye’s cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens.

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, typically takes just 10–20 minutes, and patients are usually able to return home the same day.

The effects can be life-changing, with patients often experiencing improved colour perception and the ability to return to everyday activities.

Newmedica Oxfordshire offers both NHS-funded and private ophthalmology services delivered by consultant ophthalmologists and a skilled clinical team.

The clinic also provides YAG laser treatment, glaucoma management and oculoplastic surgery.

It is owned and led by consultant ophthalmologists Melanie Chak, Mandeep Singh Bindra, Markus Groppe, Moustafa Issa and operations director Durgesh Patel.

For more information, visit newmedica.co.uk/clinics/oxfordshire.