Thousands of people in Wychavon are at risk of losing their sight.

There are currently 5,730 people in the district living with sight loss, according to the latest figures.

To mark National Eye Health Week (September 23-29), Specsavers Evesham is raising awareness about the dangers of ignoring telltale signs of eye conditions that can lead to sight loss.

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This comes as statistics by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) show that by 2032 the number of people living with sight loss in the district will rise to 7,430.

Among the conditions that can cause sight loss are age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.

The RNIB figures also show that one in five people will experience sight loss in their lifetime, with 250 people starting to lose their sight every day.

Store director, Amy Liau, said: "Prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of common eye conditions are key to reducing the number of people suffering sight loss unnecessarily.

"A large percentage of sight loss could be avoided if people have their eyes checked regularly.

"Yet despite sight being the sense that most people are concerned about losing, many people don't actually have their eyes checked every two years."

Ms Liau added: "‘Regular eye-health checks are important in preventing sight loss.

"They are essential for everyone, even if you think your eyes are fine, because damage can be done before you notice it.

"For example, an eye test can spot glaucoma years before people notice a change in their vision, and it can be treated if found soon enough."

In addition to underlying conditions, eye health can be affected by the overuse of electronic screens.

Screen fatigue won’t permanently damage a person’s eyes, but it can make symptoms of existing eye conditions such as short-sightedness more pronounced.

Ms Liau said: "Overuse of screens without a break can result in dry eyes, tired eyes, and even blurred vision.

"We should all give our eyes a rest by following the 20-20-20 rule – looking away from the screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes and focusing on something 20 feet away."

For further advice or to book an eye test, visit Specsavers Evesham at 24 Bridge Street or call 01386 423301.