World Glaucoma Week – The Importance of Early Detection and Preventive Examinations
Preservation of eye health largely depends on the timely recognition of changes and regular preventive examinations. Experts emphasize that eye health can be maintained through regular ophthalmologic check-ups, particularly for individuals at increased risk, as well as through a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking. It is also important to protect the eyes from injuries and to respond promptly to any changes in vision.
For this reason, World Glaucoma Week is observed worldwide—a global health initiative that highlights the importance of preventive eye examinations and the early detection of glaucoma. Early recognition of the disease is crucial for preventing irreversible vision loss.
On this occasion, Unifarm actively participates in raising awareness about this condition through educational activities aimed at healthcare professionals and the wider public. Through informational campaigns and professional materials, particular emphasis is placed on the importance of early screening and timely diagnosis, as glaucoma in its early stages often develops without noticeable symptoms.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a chronic progressive eye disease that leads to damage of the optic nerve. The optic nerve consists of millions of nerve fibers that transmit visual information from the eye to the brain, and damage to this nerve can result in gradual and irreversible vision loss.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 76 million people currently live with this disease, and this number is expected to increase to more than 111 million by 2040.
Who is at increased risk?
People at higher risk of developing glaucoma include:
- individuals over 40 years of age
- individuals with a family history of glaucoma
- individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or myopia
- individuals with elevated intraocular pressure
- individuals who use corticosteroid therapy for a prolonged period
Why is early diagnosis important?
Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight”, as in the early stages the disease usually presents no clear symptoms. Some patients may experience gradual loss of peripheral vision, halos around lights, or eye pain; however, these changes are often noticed only in more advanced stages of the disease.
For this reason, regular ophthalmologic examinations represent the most important step in preventing permanent vision loss.
Treatment options
The goal of glaucoma treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment may include:
- medications (eye drops to lower intraocular pressure)
- laser procedures
- surgical treatment in certain cases
Although existing vision damage cannot be reversed, timely detection and appropriate treatment can significantly slow disease progression and help preserve vision.
Through the observance of World Glaucoma Week, Unifarm continues to support activities focused on education and raising awareness about the importance of early screening, preventive examinations, and timely diagnosis, as preserving vision begins with awareness and proper care for eye health.
References:
- Tham YC, Li X, Wong TY, Quigley HA, Aung T, Cheng CY. Ophthalmology. 2014
- Weinreb RN, Aung T, Medeiros FA. JAMA. 2014
- EGS, British Journal of Ophthalmology. 2021
- GBD 2019 Blindness and Vision Impairment Collaborators. Lancet Global Health. 2021