Jasmine Harman talks to Fight for Sight about AMD and maintaining healthy eyes

Jasmine Harman is presenter of Channel 4’s ‘A Place in the Sun: Home or Away’. She talks to Fight for Sight about the importance of eye health.

You recently supported Fight for Sight’s ‘My View of London’ photo competition. What made you get involved?
My grandmother's sight deteriorated badly as she grew older and so this is a cause close to my heart. We are lucky to have the opportunity to enjoy London's fabulous views, I can't imagine how terrifying losing your sight must be so I was happy to support the photo competition.

You chose Morton Hall Park in South West London as your favourite view. Is London home to you or are you ever tempted by the properties you find abroad?
I was born in London and it is very much my home. My family and friends are here and although I love travelling, I always enjoy coming home. I have been tempted a few times by a holiday home abroad but the house-hunters usually snap up the best ones and, of course, I have to give them first refusal!

Your grandmother was affected by age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - a condition that affects the central vision. Has this made you more aware of the need for research into the prevention and treatment of eye disease?
I discovered that AMD can be hereditary but that there is no way of knowing whether or not you will develop the condition and once you have it, there is no cure. This has made me much more aware of the importance of looking after my own eyes and of the need for research into new treatments.

How much did you know about AMD before your grandmother’s diagnosis?
I didn't know anything about it. It was only through my own research and speaking to an optician that I was able to find out more about the condition and about the hereditary link. I also found out that women are more prone to it and that smoking and diet are contributing factors.

Has discovering your family history of AMD made you more vigilant about looking after your eyes?
Yes, I take supplements which some say can hep maintain healthy eyes and I protect my eyes from the sun.

You've always been interested in health and fitness and recently completed an arctic dog sledding challenge. What’s next on your sporting wish list?
I'm doing a Triathlon this summer which is pretty scary as I've never done one before and I'm not a very good swimmer!

Read more about Fight for Sight funded research into AMD here.

Find out more about eye health at Vision Matters.

Read more about Jasmine at http://www.jasmineharman.com