KEY POINTS:
Eye health and vision is the focus of a new national research centre launched today by Auckland University.
The New Zealand National Eye Centre (NZ-NEC) will bring together clinicians and scientists in the fields of ophthalmology, optometry, eye health and vision science and will develop and increase the profile of eye health, vision research and education in New Zealand.
NZ-NEC director Professor Charles McGhee said the centre's establishment was the culmination of more than eight years collaboration and planning.
"By combining the resources of all the research programmes in the area, we have increased capability to answer questions of importance to the eye health of New Zealanders and worldwide."
He said research programmes currently underway included developing treatments for eye disease, new approaches to eye surgery and wound healing, understanding the mechanisms of human vision and developing new technologies for the treatment of vision defects.
The centre would also provide environment for teaching and training of undergraduate students, postgraduate researchers and professional education programmes.
NZ-NEC deputy director Professor Michael Kalloniatis said over 100,000 people suffered from visual impairment and blindness in New Zealand, with most conditions that cause vision loss being preventable or treatable,
"Visual impairment will increase as the population ages, and is predicted to double by 2024.
"The research at the National Eye Centre will take a comprehensive view of the eye, combining basic science and clinical knowledge, to address these problems and also provide cutting-edge training and education to the ophthalmic professions."
The Centre will employ over 100 staff.
- NZPA
