Glaucoma UK has launched what it describes as the largest survey ever undertaken of people affected by glaucoma in the UK, with the goal of collecting insights from 10,000 respondents to help shape future glaucoma services and policy.

The National Patient Voices Survey, which opened on July 6 and will run until September 6, 2026, is available to people across the UK who are living with glaucoma or are currently being monitored for the condition. The charity said the initiative aims to establish one of the most comprehensive evidence bases to date on the experiences of glaucoma patients in the UK, according the Association of Optometrists.

Developed in partnership with the Picker Institute, the survey was informed by patients, clinicians and glaucoma care experts. Glaucoma UK is also encouraging ophthalmologists, optometrists and other eye care professionals to help promote participation among eligible patients. Healthcare professionals can contact Glaucoma UK to obtain promotional materials, including posters, flyers and patient information resources.

According to the charity, survey findings will provide insight into patients' experiences of diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and ongoing care. The results will be used to support service improvement and inform discussions with NHS leaders, policymakers, professional bodies, clinicians, pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers.

The survey has received endorsement from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, the College of Optometrists and the Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning.

Research from Moorfields Eye Hospital and University College London estimates that more than one million adults aged 40 years and older in the UK are living with glaucoma, with approximately half of cases remaining undiagnosed. The same study projects a 60% increase in prevalence by 2060, with the number of people affected expected to reach 1.61 million.

The charity acknowledged headline funding from the UK and Éire Glaucoma Society, Glaukos and Specsavers, with additional support provided by Théa Pharmaceuticals and Sight Sciences.