Oculomics: no eye is an island (C-100444)
29 January 2021
Winter 2021
The new discipline of oculomics uses machine learning to detect biomarkers of systemic health in the eye. Kim Thomas asks: how does it work, what are its ethical implications, and will it be the future of the profession?
Domains covered
Professionalism
Clinical practice
We have known for a long time that examining the eyes reveals information about general health: in 1898, Scottish ophthalmologist Marcus Gunn showed that changes in retinal blood vessels could indicate hypertension. Today, however, the new discipline oculomics has proved that the eyes can reveal an extraordinary amount of information about a person’s systemic health, including whether they are at risk of developing heart disease or Alzheimer’s.
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
Mr Kam Balaggan will provide optometrists with an in-depth overview of vitreomacular conditions commonly encountered in everyday practice.
One in four over-50s has vision impairment and three quarters have some hearing loss.
The College of Optometrists has presented Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh with an Honorary Fellowship of the College in recognition of Her Royal Highness’s outstanding contribution to eye health.
