Queensland Eye & Retina Specialists’ Dr Sean Cheng was recently featured with other leading Australian ophthalmologists in a Herald Sun article examining changing eye health trends and the rise of short-sightedness in younger people.
The article, Ophthalmologists urge eye checks as rates of short-sightedness ‘surge’ in young people, looks at some of the changes eye specialists are seeing in clinical practice and what Australians should know about looking after their vision.
Ophthalmologists urge routine eye checks as preventable eye disease increases
A recent article featuring insights from 39 Australian ophthalmologists has highlighted several important trends in eye health and the steps people can take to protect their vision.
While many eye conditions can be effectively managed when detected early, some can cause irreversible vision loss before noticeable symptoms develop. The message from ophthalmologists is clear: regular eye examinations and healthy lifestyle habits play an important role in maintaining long-term eye health.
Regular eye examinations are essential
Almost 60% of ophthalmologists surveyed identified delaying an eye examination as one of the biggest mistakes patients make.
Conditions including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy may develop without obvious symptoms in their early stages. By the time a person notices a change in their vision, permanent damage may already have occurred.
Regular eye examinations allow optometrists and ophthalmologists to identify early changes, monitor risk factors and arrange appropriate treatment or referral when required.
As one of the ophthalmologists featured in the article, Dr Sean Cheng contributes to this wider discussion about recognising changes in eye health and knowing when further assessment may be needed.
If you notice a change in your vision, don’t wait for it to resolve on its own — arrange an eye examination with your optometrist.
Don’t ignore changes in your vision
The article also reported that 70% of adults aged 40–59 delay having their vision checked for more than one month after noticing a change in their vision.
Changes such as blurred or distorted vision, new floaters, flashes, difficulty reading or a sudden reduction in vision should not be ignored. Some symptoms require prompt or urgent assessment, particularly when they occur suddenly.
Younger patients are increasingly seeking eye surgery
Around 20% of ophthalmologists reported seeing increasing numbers of younger patients seeking laser and other forms of eye surgery.
For some patients, reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses can be particularly appealing when maintaining an active lifestyle. Suitability for refractive or lens-based surgery depends on factors such as age, ocular health, prescription, corneal characteristics and individual visual requirements.
A comprehensive assessment is therefore an important first step before considering any surgical option.
Children need time outdoors
Myopia (short-sightedness) is becoming increasingly common, with children developing myopia at younger ages and progressing to higher levels than previous generations.
Ophthalmologists recommend that children spend at least two hours outdoors each day, where possible, as increased time outdoors has been associated with a reduced risk of developing myopia and may help slow its progression.
A combination of factors is thought to contribute to the increasing prevalence of myopia, including reduced time outdoors, increased near work and screen use, and reduced exposure to natural light, alongside genetic susceptibility.
Regular eye examinations during childhood are also important to detect myopia and other vision problems early.
Avoid frequent or vigorous eye rubbing
Frequent or vigorous eye rubbing can place mechanical stress on the cornea. In susceptible individuals, this may contribute to corneal distortion and conditions such as keratoconus, which can affect vision.
If your eyes are frequently itchy or uncomfortable, it is better to address the underlying cause rather than repeatedly rubbing them. Your optometrist can assess the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
Be cautious with weight-loss medications
The increasing use of weight-loss medications has also raised questions regarding their potential impact on eye health.
Rapid weight loss can be associated with nutritional deficiencies if dietary intake is inadequate. There are also risks associated with obtaining medications, including GLP-1 medications, from unregulated or illegal sources.
Anyone taking weight-loss medication should discuss its use with their treating medical practitioner and ensure they receive appropriate medical monitoring.
Protect your eyes and your overall health
Many of the habits that support general health can also help protect long-term eye health. Recommendations include:
- Wear UV protection: Use sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection and consider wearing a broad-brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of several eye diseases, including cataract and age-related macular degeneration.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet: Include plenty of vegetables, particularly leafy green vegetables, as part of a varied diet.
- Take regular screen breaks: When using screens for prolonged periods, consider the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something approximately 20 feet (6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds.
- Have regular eye examinations: The appropriate frequency depends on your age, risk factors and eye health. Your optometrist can recommend an examination schedule tailored to you.
Clear vision doesn’t always mean healthy eyes
One of the most important messages from the ophthalmologists is that good vision does not necessarily mean healthy eyes.
Some potentially sight-threatening conditions can develop silently, making preventive eye examinations an important part of maintaining long-term eye health. Early detection can allow appropriate monitoring, treatment or referral before significant vision loss occurs.
Regular eye examinations, healthy lifestyle choices and early attention to changes in vision can all help protect your sight for the future.
Specialist eye care at QERS
Queensland Eye & Retina Specialists provides specialist ophthalmic assessment and care from its Spring Hill clinic in Brisbane.
QERS ophthalmologists manage a range of eye conditions, including retinal and macular disease, cataract, glaucoma and other ophthalmic presentations. The clinic is also equipped with diagnostic imaging and testing to support specialist assessment where further investigation is required.
Dr Sean Cheng is the Principal Consultant Vitreoretinal Surgeon at QERS and specialises in medical and surgical diseases of the retina, including retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, retinal vascular disease and other complex retinal conditions.
When should you seek further assessment?
If you notice a new, persistent or unexplained change in your vision, arranging an eye examination is the first step.
Your optometrist or GP can assess your symptoms and, where specialist care is indicated, provide a referral to QERS for ophthalmic assessment. Healthcare professionals can also refer patients directly to QERS when specialist assessment or investigation is required.
Have a referral? Book an Appointment
> Read the full Herald Sun article
(A Herald Sun subscription is required to access the full article)
The full Herald Sun feature brings together insights from ophthalmologists across Australia on short-sightedness, changing eye health trends and practical considerations for looking after vision.
*This article is for general information and educational purposes only. Where further or specialised care is required, your treating practitioner can provide an appropriate referral.