Innovative genetic test for glaucoma now available
June 13, 2025
St George’s Eye Care is now offering a cutting-edge genetic test to assess glaucoma risk, thanks to Clinical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr Paul Baddeley, one of the first South Island providers to support this advancement.
Developed from 20 years of research led by Professor Jamie Craig at Flinders University, the test identifies genetic susceptibility to glaucoma – a leading cause of preventable blindness that often progresses without symptoms.
The process is simple: a mouth swab is sent to Australia, where it’s analysed against 7 million genetic markers. Results are returned as a SightScore – a percentile that shows how a person’s risk compares to the general population.
Those in the top 10 percent are 15 times more likely to develop glaucoma and may need earlier or more frequent treatment.
“This is a major step forward,” says Dr Baddeley. “There’s no single test for glaucoma, and many people don’t know they’re at risk until vision loss has already occurred.”
The test is particularly helpful for those with high eye pressure, unusual optic nerves, or a family history of glaucoma. Dr Baddeley, who has a family history himself, trialled the test and was reassured to find his SightScore placed him in the 24th percentile – the intermediate-risk group. He continues with regular checkups as a precaution.
One patient at St George’s has already completed the test. Her high SightScore has provided valuable insight for tailoring her care plan.
This innovative test is now available to all New Zealanders, reinforcing St George’s Eye Care’s position as a leader in advanced eye health services.
Latest news
St George’s Hospital has entered an exciting new chapter in surgical innovation with the arrival of the Da Vinci Xi General Surgical Robot, the only one of its kind in the South Island. This advanced technology supports robotic-assisted surgery across gynaecology, colorectal, general, thoracic and urology specialties, expanding access to minimally invasive procedures for patients in Canterbury and beyond.
Christchurch, Friday 3 October 2025: More than 120 guests gathered to mark a significant milestone as St George’s Eye Care celebrated its 10-year anniversary. The specialist private ophthalmic practice, based within St George’s Hospital, has become a cornerstone of expert cataract and ophthalmic treatment in Christchurch and across the South Island.
Born and raised in Canterbury, Victoria Leov began her career here as a nurse after completing her studies at Ara. Starting her clinical career in General Practice and Oncology gave her a strong foundation in patient care and a deep appreciation for the difference that skilled, compassionate teams make every day.
Every day, patients walk through St George’s doors seeking care, comfort and reassurance and the feedback they share continues to reflect the warmth and professionalism they experience from our teams.
We’re proud to share that St George’s Hospital has been awarded the McFedries Trophy at the 2025 Christchurch Beautifying Association Awards, recognising the entire hospital site for its outstanding gardens and beautifully maintained green spaces.
Erin Bensley (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa) has always been drawn to roles that combine clinical care with systems thinking. She began her nursing career in the neurosurgery and neurology ward at Christchurch Public Hospital while completing postgraduate studies in neurosciences. Her growing interest in data and information management led her to study Nursing and Health Leadership and Management, eventually stepping into her current role as Clinical Informatics Manager at St George’s Hospital.