World Glaucoma week 8- 14 March 2020 Glaucoma presents itself as a group of ocular diseases associated with progressive optic neuropathy that can lead to loss of visual function. It is the 3rd most common cause of blindness in the world. We appeal to the community to have regular comprehensive eye examinations to help eliminate blindness caused by glaucoma. Glaucoma can be classified broadly into 2 categories:
• Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
• Angle Closure Glaucoma (ACG)
Risk Factors for the development of Glaucoma Certain risk factors: Age, race, family history, ocular trauma, Ocular and Systemic factors increase the probability to develop glaucoma. The risk is higher in 60 years and older, black African have a higher risk than Caucasians. Systemic diseases like Diabetes, blood pressure and vasospasm also increase the risk. Glaucoma screening may include the following tests but are not limited to:
• Tonometry
• Optic Nerve Assessment by Direct Ophthalmoscopy and using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
• Photography by Fundus camera
• Perimetry
Periodic comprehensive eye examinations may be the most cost-effective way to detect glaucoma in a population. Take heed to visit your Optometrist for a routine optometric examination which includes glaucoma assessment.
GET YOUR EYES SCREENED FOR GLAUCOMA: ‘SAVE YOUR SIGHT’
