Resource category: Neuro Orthoptics & Ophthalmology

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The British and Irish Orthoptic Society (BIOS) strongly advocates for the reduction of the Body Mass Index (BMI) threshold for referrals to obesity services in patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) to 30. IIH is a serious neurological condition that can lead to progressive visual impairment and sight loss. Evidence shows that weight management plays a crucial role in disease control, and early intervention is essential in preventing long-term disability. By lowering the BMI threshold for referral, obesity services can support earlier access to weight management strategies, improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of irreversible sight loss.

Orthoptists, as key professionals in the early detection and management of IIH, urge obesity services to recognise IIH as a high-risk condition requiring prioritisation in weight management programmes. BIOS calls for urgent changes to referral criteria to ensure that patients receive the necessary support before significant sight loss occurs.

People with neurological conditions experience a high incidence of visual problems. Orthoptists can assess, diagnose, treat and monitor visual signs as an important part of clinical care.