Clear vision

Thousands of people at risk of developing eye diseases are expected to attend the Centre for Eye Health at the Kensington campus.

The centre, a joint initiative between UNSW and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, was opened officially last week by the Governor of NSW, Professor Marie Bashir.

It aims to reduce preventable blindness and vision impairment by early detection of eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Guide Dogs plans to spend $40 million over 10 years to provide a comprehensive range of world-class eye imaging and vision diagnosis services at no charge to anyone referred by a general practitioner, ophthalmologist or optometrist.

Most irreversible vision loss due to eye disease can be managed and treated if detected early, says centre director Professor Michael Kalloniatis. Half of all vision impairment is correctable and one quarter is preventable if diagnosed and managed early.

"For the first time in Australia, the best diagnostic equipment will be readily available under one roof and at no cost to anyone at risk of developing eye disease," says Professor Kalloniatis.

The centre will also serve as a teaching facility for UNSW's School of Optometry and Vision Science and help support a wide range of vision research and education at the university.

The CFEH telephone number is: 1300 421 960

Read the full story in the latest issue of Uniken.