Our eyesight is often something we take for granted – until there’s something wrong with it. Problems like short-sightedness (myopia) are rapidly increasing. In fact, research has predicted that by 2050 there will be 4,758 million people with the condition – nearly half (49.8%) of the world’s population – as experts are highlighting ahead of National Eye Health Week (September 18-24) In addition, new research by Macushield found 73% of Brits notice their eyes deteriorating with age, and the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) World Report on Vision has predicted a dramatic increase in the need for eyecare in the near future, pointing out that at least 2.2 billion people globally have a vision impairment – and around half of these have vision impairment that could have been prevented. “Some people may not be giving their eye health the attention it deserves, occasionally missing out on annual eye tests, which play a crucial role in detecting conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration,” says ophthalmologist Dr Jørn Slot Jørgensen. “When identified and addressed in a timely manner, these issues can be managed effectively, helping safeguard our vision.” Jørgensen says the pandemic also played a role in worsening eye problems, particularly the increase in short-sightedness. “With the shift to remote work, people are now more likely to spend extended hours with their screens for work and leisure,” he says. “Prioritising eye health isn’t just a matter of convenience, it’s a fundamental aspect of our overall wellbeing.” Here Jørgensen, of the Laser Eye Clinic London, and Evelyn (Evie) Mensah, a consultant ophthalmologist and eye surgeon at Central Middlesex Hospital and member of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists council, outline seven ways people may be damaging their vision, without even realising… 1. Skipping eye tests Mensah says it’s advisable for people to have a sight test every two years, or more often if their optometrist recommends it. Jørgensen adds: “Failing to schedule regular eye tests can result in undiagnosed eye conditions. Conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration often develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages, but early detection through eye tests is crucial for effective treatment and vision preservation.“ Routine eye tests can also pick up early signs of underlying systemic health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. 2. Prolonged screen time The widespread use of digital devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones has led to extended periods of screen time for both work and leisure, says Jørgensen. “This can result in digital eye strain, characterised by symptoms like dry eyes, headaches and blurred vision,” he explains. “In this age of digital technology, it’s advisable to relieve digital eye strain by using the 20-20-20 rule,” says Mensah – this means every 20 minutes, looking at something 20ft away for 20 seconds. “In addition, remember to blink when using a screen to prevent eyes from getting dry.” 3. Not wearing UV protective sunglasses Jørgensen says failing to wear sunglasses with adequate UV protection can lead to harmful UV radiation exposure, which may contribute to conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). “Protecting your eyes from UV rays, particularly in sunny conditions, is essential for preserving long-term eye health,” he stresses. Mensah says UV exposure can also increase the development of growths on the surface of the eyes called pterygia, and warns: “Not all sunglasses filter UV light, so ensure they carry the CE, UV 400 or British Standard Mark. And never look directly at the sun because this can cause a solar burn in the macula that can result in permanent visual loss.” 4. Poor diet and lack of nutrients Eating a healthy, balanced diet could help reduce your risk of sight-threatening eye disease such as AMD, which impacts central vision. Mensah explains that the macula – part of the retina which processes what you see directly in front of you – contains natural pigments such as lutein and zeaxanthin that are found in dark-green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale. “Vitamins A, C and E are also helpful, so eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day,” she advises. “And if you have a family history of AMD, ask your GP about taking nutritional supplements.” Jørgensen adds: “A poor diet lacking essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc, can harm eye health, as these nutrients are vital for vision and overall eye function. To maintain healthy eyes, it’s crucial to consume a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colourful fruits and vegetables, and omega-3 sources.” 5. Smoking If you’re a smoker, stopping is not only beneficial to your general health but also your eyes, says Mensah: “Smoking cessation is a modifiable factor that can reduce the risk of developing certain eye conditions such as AMD and cataracts.” Ask your GP for support if you are keen to quit – there are lots of helpful resources available. 6. Not wearing prescribed glasses Mensah says there’s a widespread misconception that wearing prescribed glasses worsens your eyesight. “This notion is inaccurate,” she stresses. “The primary reason for wearing prescribed glasses is simply because you require them. If you neglect to wear them, you run the risk of experiencing headaches.” 7. Inadequate lighting “Working or reading in areas with insufficient lighting can make your eyes work harder, leading to eye strain, discomfort, and poorer vision,” says Jørgensen. He points out that good lighting, often called ‘task lighting’, is vital for creating comfortable conditions for reading and working. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Celebrities mingle with royals at glam Vogue World party in London Sienna Miller bares baby bump at celebrity and royal-studded Vogue event See plus-size model Ashley Graham stun in Old Hollywood-inspired Harris Reed LFW show

Max Verstappen completed a practice double for Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton finished only 11th on a disheartening day for the seven-time world champion and his Mercedes team. As Verstappen predictably set the pace for Red Bull at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya, Hamilton, 12th in the day’s first running, ended second practice six tenths off the pace. Home favourite Fernando Alonso raised hope that he could challenge Verstappen and his all-conquering Red Bull team after he finished second for Aston Martin, just 0.170 seconds back. Nico Hulkenberg was an impressive third for Haas, with Verstappen’s Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez fourth. Hamilton admitted on Thursday that Mercedes’ much-anticipated upgrade, which made its debut in Monaco a week ago, had not provided the magic fix he was hoping for. And on his new machine’s second outing, at a track where the Silver Arrows said they would obtain a greater understanding of their upgrades, the evidence suggests they are no closer to taking on the mighty Red Bull, or indeed, leapfrogging rivals Aston Martin and Ferrari. Hamilton’s team-mate George Russell finished eighth, half-a-second off the pace. Russell also came within inches of a nasty accident with Oscar Piastri after he was blocked by the rookie McLaren driver. Russell was forced to take evasive action, running off the road and into the gravel. “Who the f*** was that in the McLaren,” said the usually mild-mannered Briton as he limped through the sandtrap. Verstappen has been in a class of one for the past 18 months and his dominance continued on Friday. A day after he made the ominous prediction that Red Bull could win all 16 remaining races this year, Verstappen finished seven tenths faster than anyone else in the opening running before returning to the top of the timesheets for the day’s final action. Alonso’s home race this weekend marks the 10th anniversary of his 32nd and last win in the sport. However, the Spaniard is enjoying a career resurgence following his transfer from Alpine to Aston Martin, finishing on the podium at five of the first six races, and emerging as a possible threat to Verstappen. Five days after he finished on the podium in Monaco, Esteban Ocon was fifth for Alpine, three tenths back, with the Ferrari pair of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz sixth and seventh respectively. British driver Lando Norris finished 14th for McLaren, two places behind his rookie team-mate Piastri. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Lewis Hamilton toils in 12th as Max Verstappen and Red Bull dominate in Spain Fernando Alonso: Hamilton can win eighth title but Verstappen can break records Fernando Alonso: Aston Martin ‘will not give up’ in push for F1 triumph

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Heidi Klum is prepping for the debut of her own creation – her 2023 Halloween costume. From a flesh-eating alien to Fiona and a sparkly firework, the 50-year-old supermodel not only stunts on high-fashion runways but on the red carpet for the spookiest night of the year. It’s safe to say Klum’s love for dressing up isn’t just haute couture. She’s a costume enthusiast as well, and the mother of three is already preparing to assume her character for this year’s Halloween celebration. The America’s Got Talent judge spoke to the MailOnline last week while taping for the show, where Klum hinted at her outlandish costume plans currently in the works. “It’s going to be extra. It’s going to be really extra. I have had sleepless nights over it, you know me,” she confessed. “I have to admit, I love it. And then my gut, I feel like it’s going to be good.” Last year, the German businesswoman shocked spectators by dressing in an all-too-realistic worm get-up, which took two years to make. Only the fashion mogul’s eyes peered through the thick and slimy coating of the cylinder costume. Speaking to the MailOnline, Klum admitted her team conveyed the same concerns over her desired look for this year as they did with her 2022 worm attire. “They were like, ‘A worm, really?’” Klum recalled in conversation with the outlet. “They kind of wanted me to think of a plan B and a plan C, but I’m not like that. For me, it is plan A.” “If you are thinking of all different other things, then it’s not going to be a success or it’s not going to be that major,” she continued. “Everyone around is always like: ‘Think of something different. This is crazy. And the worm is crazy.’” Though Klum’s been known to incorporate her husband and children in the storyline for her 31 October looks, she revealed her 2023 appearance will be a solo act. She admitted: “I never know if it will be good until the day, and I don’t want to let my Halloween fans down. There are so many creative people around the world and I don’t want to let them down.” The TV host has known her costume would only involve herself since 1 November last year, as that’s when she typically starts planning for the following year’s holiday. “When I wake up tomorrow, I start thinking of the next [costume],” Klum told People at her 2022 party. Klum’s bubbly textured invertebrate costume followed her intricate Zombie look and 2020 toilet paper mummy. The producer gravitates toward heavy makeup and facial reconfiguration for accuracy in every character. She’s rarely recognisable on the day, except for her eyes piercing through the thick mask made to look animated for every character. However, the style enthusiast took a break to seemingly celebrate herself in 2016, when she dressed as a Victoria’s Secret angel. Not only did Klum wear a renowned runway look from the intimates brand, but she convinced a squad of other women to mimic her look and reconstruct their facial features to look like her. In 2013, Klum decided to hit the fast-forward function on time and dressed like an old lady. The immaculate prosthetics, which included a wrinkled collarbone and varicose veins lining her neck, crafted a look so realistic that you’d think she was many years past her age - and not the then 40 years old that she was. Read More Heidi Klum denies she counts calories after facing backlash over reports she only eats 900 calories a day Heidi Klum’s model daughter Leni shows off grisly burn after admitting she ‘didn’t use enough sunscreen’ Heidi Klum opens up about her and husband Tom Kaulitz’s 16-year age gap 11 best kids’ Halloween outfits that will scare and delight 9 best horror stories to read this Halloween and beyond Kourtney Kardashian’s skeletons and other celebrity inspiration for Halloween

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