Kolkata : This
World Glaucoma Week, Allergan, an AbbVie company, came together with renowned
experts in the field of ophthalmology to emphasise the importance of early
detection and treatment of glaucoma to prevent eye impairment. The experts also
shed light on the essential measures for managing risk and prevention
techniques, as well as the latest developments in treatment.
World Glaucoma Week is celebrated annually in March to raise
awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma.
World Glaucoma Week serves as an important platform to draw attention to the
growing public health concern of glaucoma and the need for improved eye health
systems to prevent vision impairment. It is a reminder of the urgent need for
increased efforts to prevent, diagnose, and treat glaucoma to ensure a brighter
future for individuals and communities affected by this devastating eye
disease.
Globally, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness
after cataracts. It is estimated to cause blindness in 4.5 million people
worldwide, whereas in India, out of 12 million people who are suffering from
glaucoma, 1.2 million people are blind owing to this disease as per 2012
statistics. Despite this, glaucoma is largely undiagnosed, with more than 90
percent of untreated cases. It has become a growing cause of concern for the
country. Being a progressive and irreversible condition of blindness, early
detection and management is of utmost importance.
Glaucoma is an eye conditions that can lead to vision loss
if left untreated. It is a disease that damages the optic nerve, which
transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma typically
progresses slowly over time and can cause gradual loss of peripheral vision,
eventually leading to blindness if not treated.
Adding about the current glaucoma situation in India, Dr.
Maneesh Singh, Director, Netralayam, The Super-speciality Eye care centre said
“The prevalence of glaucoma in India varies between rural and urban areas. This can be attributed to several factors,
such as lifestyle changes, increased life expectancy, and The burden of
glaucoma in India is expected to increase in the coming years due to several
factors such as an aging population, lifestyle changes, and an increase in
chronic diseases like diabetes, which is a risk factor for glaucoma. Therefore,
it is essential to increase awareness about glaucoma, improve access to eye care
services, and develop effective screening programs, particularly in rural
areas.”
Dr. Debasis Chakrabarti, Consultant
Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma and Cataract Services, at Centre For Sight, Kolkata added
“There are numerous myths and false beliefs regarding glaucoma that may
discourage people from getting the treatment and care they need. The idea that
glaucoma only affects older people is among the most common misconceptions
about the disease. Although elderly people are indeed more likely to get glaucoma,
it can afflict anyone at any age, including infants and young adults. In
addition, regardless of age, those with a family history of the illness are at
a higher risk. The idea that glaucoma primarily affects those with high eye
pressure is another widespread myth. Even though having high eye pressure
increases your risk of developing glaucoma, it's not the sole risk factor. “
It is essential to emphasise the necessity of yearly eye
exams in order to detect glaucoma early and prevent visual loss. Highlighting
the importance of timely intervention, Dr. Rishi Jain, Medical Director,
Allergan an AbbVie Company said “Early
detection is key to prevent vision loss, as once lost it cannot be reversed.
Visit an ophthalmologist at least once every year to get your eyes checked. The
early symptoms of glaucoma are normally detectable during an eye exam by an
optometrist or ophthalmologist. Tonometry, ophthalmoscopy, and perimetry are
simple tests for detecting increased eye pressure (tonometry), optic nerve
damage (ophthalmoscopy), and vision loss (perimetry). Additionally, your doctor
may perform other procedures, such as gonioscopy and pachymetry, which measure
the angle between the cornea and iris.”
Dr. Partha Biswas, Medical Director,
Trenetralaya, Kolkata and Chairperson, Scientific Committee, All India
Ophthalmology Society elaborated on the various
measures that can help reduce the risk of developing glaucoma. “Regular eye
exams are essential for identifying glaucoma early before any serious damage
occurs. Every year, those over 40 should undergo a comprehensive eye exam, and
those at higher risk (such as those with a family history of the condition)
should get check-ups more frequently. Early detection by regular eye check up
is the best way of tackling glaucoma. Another crucial aspect of glaucoma
prevention is protecting the eyes from injury. Lastly managing underlying
medical issues like diabetes and high blood sugar should be managed well in
patients with glaucoma.
Proper and timely treatment can prevent further blindness.
It is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist for regular preventive eye
check-ups who can conduct special tests as needed and suggest treatment by
medicines, lasers or glaucoma surgery. Allergan, an AbbVie company, is committed
to raising awareness about this important issue.
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