Life and death
OF the five human senses, sight is the most important. Without clear vision, it is almost impossible to function effectively – despite the inspirational example of Sheffield’s David Blunkett, who did not allow his blindness to be the barrier to a distinguished political career.
Yet, despite preventative healthcare going to the heart of NHS people, one in 10 people are endangering their sight because they do not undertake regular check because of ignorance – the nationwide increase in eye infections is now being linked to DIY contact lenses purchased on the internet – or financial concerns.
With new glasses, or lenses, costing several hundred pounds, it is surely in the interests of the College of Optometrists to look at the issue of cost so there is no excuse for people not going to the optician for regular checks. After all, this is, potentially, a life a death issue – one consequence of inaction is drivers getting behind the wheel of a car when it is not safe for them to do so.