Five Things You Didn’t Know About Keratoconus

For the thousands of people living with keratoconus, it’s a daily reality that is life-changing. This Keratoconus Awareness Day, we’re shedding light on five surprising facts about this complex eye condition and the promising research that is helping to bring about change in sight.

1. Keratoconus is more common than you might think

Keratoconus affects approximately 1 in 500 to 1 in 2,000 people, predominantly among young adults. It usually appears during the teenage years and can progress over time, affecting both eyes.

While it was once considered rare, the advent of better diagnostic tools means that more people are now being accurately diagnosed earlier, giving them more options for treatment and support.

2. A change in the cornea’s structure causes keratoconus

In keratoconus, the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped window at the front of the eye, becomes thinner and weaker.

This causes it to bulge outward into a cone-like shape, distorting vision.

Scientists believe a mix of genetic and environmental factors plays a role. 

Dr Nasser Siabi, OBE, is one of five brothers.

Of those, four had keratoconus. Listen to the podcast where he discusses his family history and talks about assistive tech.

3. It’s not just about blurred vision

While distorted or blurred sight is the most well-known symptom, keratoconus can also cause light sensitivity, eye strain and frequent changes in prescription.

For some, driving at night becomes challenging; for others, everyday tasks like reading or recognising faces can feel exhausting.

Understanding these lived experiences helps researchers focus on treatments that make a real difference — not just to sight, but to quality of life.

4. Treatment has come a long way

Treatments vary from the early to the later stages of keratoconus and include corneal cross-linking, various types of custom contact lenses, and, in extreme cases, corneal transplant. 

5. Research is changing the future

At Fight for Sight, we fund the brilliant minds and bright ideas pushing keratoconus research forward — from mapping genetic risk factors to developing earlier and more accurate diagnostic tools.

Every breakthrough takes us closer to prevention and personalised treatments that bring hope within reach.

Recently, we spoke to Dr Hannah Levis, who is developing artificial corneas for transplant with the help of our funding. 

Together, we’re helping more people see a brighter future.

Join us this Keratoconus Awareness Day.

Share your story, raise awareness, or support the research that brings change into sight.

Save Sight. Change Lives.