We’re committed to keeping the Sight Loss Data Tool up to date with the latest, high‑quality evidence.
Research commissioned by Glaucoma UK, and carried out by researchers at Moorfields Eye Hospital and University College London, has provided updated estimates of how common glaucoma is at different ages across the UK. These findings have now been incorporated into the data tool.
About the new study
The study brings together the most robust available evidence on how common glaucoma is at different ages and provides revised estimates for the UK population.
Key findings include:
- more than one million adults aged 40 and over are currently living with glaucoma
- around half of these cases are undiagnosed, reflecting the condition’s often symptomless early stages
- a projected 60 per cent increase in glaucoma cases by 2060, rising to over 1.6 million adults.
These demographic shifts highlight the growing importance of planning eye care services around long‑term population needs.
How the Sight Loss Data Tool helps
The Sight Loss Data Tool now includes updated glaucoma prevalence estimates, aligned to the new study, for 2026 and 2036. This includes local estimates, allowing users to explore how rates vary across local authorities and health boards.
By combining this new evidence with other eye health and sight loss data, the Sight Loss Data Tool allows users to get a full and clear picture of how sight loss needs are changing, and what this means for decision‑makers across the UK.
High‑quality data is essential for planning, commissioning and improving services for people at risk of or living with sight loss.
The addition of these updated glaucoma estimates strengthens the evidence base, helping organisations better understand prevalence, anticipate demand, and ensure that services can respond to a growing population with higher levels of need.
More information
The full text of the study is available from the British Journal of Ophthalmology website.
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