All Eyes on Glaucoma for World Glaucoma Day

Glaucoma is known to be the world’s leading cause of preventable blindness. According to recent research, some 27% of people say they do not know what glaucoma is and nearly 40% do not know that it can cause blindness.

12th March 2009

NCBI (National Council for the Blind of Ireland) is campaigning on World Glaucoma Day, which takes place on 12th March 2009 to promote awareness of eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations in order to reduce the onset of glaucoma. World Glaucoma Day offers the opportunity to send a clear message not only of prevention but also of preserving vision. Recent research has shown that with the rise in the aging population, the prevalence of glaucoma is expected to rise from 60 million in 2010 to 80 million in 2020 globally.

Glaucoma is the name given to a number of diseases that irreversibly damage the eye’s optic nerve and can lead to progressive loss of vision if left untreated. Unlike many of the other leading causes of vision impairment, glaucoma is essentially symptomless in the early to moderate stages of the disease process. The best way therefore to tackle glaucoma is to diagnose early. Glaucoma can affect all age groups, however the major risk factors include age, family history of glaucoma, being short sighted and also diabetes.

Early Detection

The disease is commonly detected by measuring the pressure in the eye. “Most patients are well treated with eye-drops alone, though some require laser or surgery to control the eye pressure” said Professor O’Brien, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Mater Hospital. “As vision loss from glaucoma is permanent, it is essential for it to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible”, Professor O’Brien continued.

Research published in 2008 revealed that twice as many people are afraid of going blind as are afraid of premature death. Yet despite this fear of blindness, 27% of people do not think eye health is a priority.

Regular Eye Exams

NCBI’s Chief Executive, Des Kenny, said “World Glaucoma Day was created to raise awareness of the disease and to highlight the importance of regular eye exams. It is clear from the research that although people have a genuine fear of blindness, they don’t take steps to look after their eyes. In 2008 alone, 80 people in Ireland registered as blind as a result of glaucoma . Glaucoma is a preventable disease and cases in Ireland should be falling, not rising.”

NCBI is encouraging everyone to inform themselves about the disease, in particular those who are at risk. A new website:
www.AllEyesOnGlaucoma.com provides online support and other information to help people take action now and avoid the consequences of vision loss later.