Drive to promote eye tests

Eye tests can detect potentially blinding eye conditions

A national campaign has been launched to encourage members of the Afro-Caribbean and African communities to have eye tests.

The Royal National Institute for the Blind, (RNIB), says people from the two communities are more likely to develop the eye condition, glaucoma.

According to the RNIB, potentially blinding eye conditions such as diabetic eye disease and glaucoma can be prevented by comprehensive eye tests.

Preventing sight loss

RNIB eye health project officer Lucy Adams said: "What is vital about this campaign is that although people of African-Caribbean and African descent are at higher risk of glaucoma, if detected early by a regular comprehensive eye test, no-one need suffer sight loss."

The campaign was launched at the annual Afro-Hair and Beauty Exhibition at Alexandra Palace in north London, where RNIB staff and volunteers offered information and advice.

"We are asking that people who own or run hairdressers, restaurants or community groups help us by displaying our poster and leaflets in their venues," said Lucy Adams.