IT IS with some sadness that I read about the recent decision by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) to rule against the use of Lucentis for the treatment of diabetic macular oedemia.

Thank goodness it has continued to allow cheaper treatment by laser. Unfortunately, laser treatment might be cheaper, but it could be considered second best for those losing their sight.

Laser only prevents further degeneration and can, over a period of time, cause damage to the surrounding eye tissue.

Treatment by Lucentis is capable of stabilising vision and can also lead to improved vision for those with diabetic macular oedemia.

Sir Andre Dillon, chief executive of NICE, has said that is not the place of NICE to consider the greater personal cost or the additional costs to society when people lose their sight, but surely the benefits of improving sight must impact on the NHS too.

I urge everyone in York to support the campaign by Diabetes UK to get NICE to reconsider its decision. You can do this by logging on to diabetes.org.uk or by writing to your MP expressing your concerns.

Sue Smith, Chair, Diabetes UK York & District Group, Rishworth Grove, York.