World Glaucoma Day

In connection with World Glaucoma Day on March 12, the Eye Foundation will conduct awareness programmes about the disease. The second leading cause of blindness in India, glaucoma is likely to affect more than 12 million Indians above the age of 40 by 2010, said D. Ramamurthy, Chairman of the Eye Foundation. Speaking to reporters here on Tuesday, he stressed the need to create awareness on the disease.

Though the incidence of cataract had gone down, blindness due to glaucoma, retinopathy and refractive errors was on the rise. Since glaucoma did not manifest many symptoms during the initial stages, it often went unnoticed till the advanced stages. Hence, it was important for people over 40 years of age to undergo routine eye evaluation and pressure checks. If left unchecked, glaucoma could lead to complete loss of vision. Caused by increased fluid pressure inside the eye, the disease was slow and progressive in nature and demanded frequent follow up.

Those with a genetic predisposition, those over 40 years of age, people with poor vision, diabetes, those on steroid medication and previous eye injury fell into the high-risk category. Such people should check themselves for glaucoma. Treatments options included drops, pills, laser, and surgery depending upon the condition of the patient. Also, sophisticated equipment were available at hospitals to check for glaucoma. The Eye Foundation had special glaucoma clinics at its Coimbatore and Tirupur hospitals. A glaucoma helpline was also introduced in order to increase awareness about the disease. For information on glaucoma, call 9843478856.

Lotus Eye Care Hospital will conduct free glaucoma screening in connection with “World Glaucoma Day” on March 12 at the hospital. Glaucoma patients along with their family members could avail of the free screening facilities at the hospital. The family members could also test their eye pressure for free. For appointment and registration, contact 0422-625102.

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