Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers' shocking diagnosis after routine check-up
EXCLUSIVE: Dave Myers was left shocked after finding out he had signs of early-onset glaucoma after a a regular check up at a high-street opticians.
The Hairy Bikers' Dave Myers shares gratitude for his nurses
Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers was left shocked after finding out he had glaucoma after a routine check-up at his local opticians.
The 66-year-old had to have scans which took a closer look at the back of his eye and was told by the optometrist that he was showing signs of early-onset glaucoma.
The television personality was thankful that it was spotted so early on as he was referred to his GP and prescribed eye drops to ensure the eye disease didn't progress any further.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, the BBC star expressed: "I was so relieved and thankful that it had been detected because it meant I could continue my career, doing what I love most, being able to work alongside my best friend, but, more importantly, being able to see my children's faces.
"If I hadn't gone for my regular check-up, I could be completely blind which is a scary thought. As many as half of all people with glaucoma are undiagnosed."
Dave now regularly visits Specsavers and uses eyedrops regularly, and thanks to that, he has 20:20 vision.
The eye drops help to keep his eye pressure at a stable level and safeguards his eyes from sight loss.
The presenter has now partnered with Specsavers, industry experts and Labour MP Marsha De Cordova to call for a policy change and the implementation of a National Eye Health Strategy in England.
On why the country should implement this, Dave continued: "Along with Specsavers and MP, Marsha De Cordova, I believe we need a National Eye Health Strategy as it would help alleviate some of this pressure on the NHS.
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"By making more efficient use of high street opticians people would spend less time waiting for care.
"It would also ensure everyone has equal access to care as there are some people, such as those experiencing homelessness that are particularly disadvantaged and struggle to access an NHS eye test," he told Express.co.uk.
Dave has partnered with Specsavers for a call for policy change. To learn more about Specsavers Access to Care Report visit www.specsavers.co.uk/reports/access-to-care-2023
