The Pat Kenny Show Ask The Expert: Arthur Cummings Consultant Eye Surgeon
Dec 8, 2025
Arthur Cummings, a consultant eye surgeon and medical director at the Wellington Eye Clinic, dives into the fascinating world of oculomics—the study of how eye health reflects overall body wellness. He explains how advanced OCT imaging and AI can predict systemic diseases years in advance. Cummings addresses various listener questions, from the implications of retinal clarity on heart health to effective treatments for adult tear duct blockages. He also discusses the nuances of correcting amblyopia in adults and the importance of monitoring optic nerve changes.
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Eye Imaging Predicts Future Health
- Oculomics uses OCT imaging plus AI to read microstructures in the retina and predict systemic disease risks.
- It can potentially forecast dementia, heart disease, and stroke years before symptoms appear.
Monitor Eyes Regularly For Trends
- Do get serial OCT scans to track trends in nerve-fiber thickness and vascular changes rather than relying on a single snapshot.
- Use repeated measurements to detect progressive changes that may indicate future disease risk.
Trust Systemic Risk Management
- Follow your GP's recommendation to take statins when you have high cholesterol and family history even if retinal vessels look clear.
- Retinal appearance can be normal while dangerous plaques exist elsewhere, so treat systemic risk factors.