A Place In The Sun host reveals terrifying new health diagnosis with signs she 'ignored for years'

Jean Johansson
-Credit: (Image: Owen Holwells / Channel 4)


Jean Johansson, known for her appearances on A Place In The Sun, has shared some personal health news. The 42 year old presenter revealed that she's been diagnosed with a "life-changing" condition after she "ignored" signs for "years".

Jean shared the news that she's been diagnosed with presbyopia, a condition that affects the eyes' ability to focus on close objects. The TV star admitted she'd ignored signs of her deteriorating eyesight for years before finally getting an eye test.

Since getting glasses, she said: "I can honestly say it's been life-changing." Jean confessed: "I'm not entirely sure why it took me so long to admit I needed glasses," suggesting it was likely due to her reluctance to accept she was ageing.

READ MORE:Automatic £150 payment coming from October for those born before this date

READ MORE:Jamie Oliver's student nurse daughter overshares on-the-job info that could be deemed 'unprofessional'

Jean Johansson
Jean Johansson said the diagnosis has been 'life-changing' -Credit:Owen Holwells/Channel 4

However, now she doesn't have to squint to read her TV scripts and joked in her Sunday Mail column: "I'm [also] no longer stealing my mum's glasses to read a menu in a restaurant." While she may not be joining Jennifer Aniston and Rihanna as one of the world's sexiest glasses wearers, she's loving her new frames.

Jean is encouraging others experiencing similar issues to get their eyes tested, reports the Daily Star. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, presbyopia is a normal part of ageing, usually starting in your early to mid-40s and continuing to progress until around 65.

The site states "You may become aware of presbyopia when you start holding books and newspapers at arm's length to be able to read them. A basic eye exam can confirm presbyopia. You can correct the condition with eyeglasses or contact lenses. You might also consider surgery."

Individuals suffering from presbyopia typically notice their vision blurs when trying to read without stretching their arms out, and might suffer from headaches or strained eyes after engaging in activities requiring close focus. Jean has revealed that her agent pitches for her to be on Strictly Come Dancing "every year".

Jean Johansson at the NTAs 2024
Jean revealed that her agent pitches for her to be on Strictly Come Dancing 'every year' -Credit:Getty Images for the NTA's

Sign up to OK's TV newsletter to get updates sent to your inbox for free

She shared her enthusiasm for the hit dance show, expressing her desire to hit the dance floor, with her ideal partner being none other than Johannes Radebe. In a chat with Love Sunday Magazine, Jean exclaimed her anticipation for this year's competition, as her close pal Dr Punam Krishnan will be showing off her skills.

Excitedly endorsing her friend, she said: "She's [Krishnan] so smart. I think it'll be well out of her comfort zone but all us Scots will be behind her. I can't wait to see her Beyonce moves on the dance floor!"