- The face of Kirk Pengilly, sax player from INXS, is instantly recognisable for its trademark goatee but his as he explained today on Sunrise, his eyes nearly became more famous after his own brush with blindness.

Kirk was diagnosed with glaucoma at the age of 27 and is now an ambassador for the Eye Foundation.

 

"After almost losing my sight when I was in my late 20s, I truly believe that all Australians need to make eye health a priority. I encourage Australians to support JULeye to help The Eye Foundation to continue its valuable work," explained Kirk. 

Today, the Eye Foundation launches the results of its first ever National Eye Health Report, which takes a look at a range of eye health awareness issues.

Risks to your eyes

	fact
	44% of people don’t get their eyes tested frequently enough. You should get your eyes tested at least every two years.

- More than one in four (28%) Australian workers smoke on regular basis, which is a known risk factor for common eye diseases.

- The report shows that 3 out of 5 workers regularly take part in some form of activity known to increase the risk of eye disease.

- Many Australians are not aware of the early warning signs of the leading causes of blindness, even those with a family history of eye disease.

 

It is a reality many people don’t see that 75% of blindness and vision loss can be treated and early detection is vital.

The Eye Foundation is not for profit, and funds research and eye care development projects, along with community awareness programs to help prevent the loss of sight.

Throughout the month of July, Australians are being encouraged to show their support by making a donation via the JULeye website.

 

More info

www.juleye.com.au