One in 10 people are putting themselves at risk by leaving years in between eye tests, a new poll suggests.

The College of Optometrists said many people are living with poor vision or putting their sight at risk by failing to go for regular eye checks.

A survey of 2,000 people from across UK found that 36 per cent of people leave months before having an eye test. And 13 per cent of people said they have waited years before seeking help even after noticing their eye sight deteriorate.

The College said the majority of people should have their eyes examined every two years.

But one in 10 of those polled said they had never had a test.

Susan Blakeney, clinical adviser to the College of Optometrists, said: “It’s concerning that despite sight being considered our most precious sense people don’t treat problems with their eyes in the same way they would other conditions, which would result in an immediate trip to the GP.

“Regular sight checks are important for two reasons, firstly because having your vision corrected can improve the quality of day-to-day life, but secondly, and perhaps more importantly, regular sight tests can mean early detection of conditions such as cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration which could lead to sight loss.

“An optometrist may also be able to spot the signs of some broader health conditions with symptoms that affect the eyes, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

“If you notice any changes, such as straight lines appearing wavy, ‘missing’ patches or blurry vision, then you should book yourself in for a sight test.

“Regular eye examinations should form part of everyone’s health routine, after all looking after your eyes is just as important as looking after the rest of your body.”