Thousands of people in East Devon risk losing their sight.

The number of people living with sight loss in East Devon is predicted to rise from 1,110 to 10,000 by 2032, according to the latest figures.

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

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 East Devon will rise by nearly 9,000 in the next eight years.

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.

Every day, 250 people start to lose their sight.

Ria Heskins, director at the Specsavers Exmouth store, 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."

She stressed the importance of regular eye health checks in preventing sight loss, saying they are essential for everyone, even if they think their eyes are fine because damage can be done before it is noticed.

Ms Heskins said: "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 eye health, a sight test can detect other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, risk of stroke, and heart disease."

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 Heskins, said: "These days, where we engage daily with computer monitors, mobile devices, and TV screens, people suffer from screen fatigue.

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

She advised 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 the Specsavers Exmouth store on Exeter Road or call 01395 277107.