Monday 9th March marks the start of World Glaucoma Week, as we come together to fight for a glaucoma-free future.
Organised by the World Glaucoma Association, the week invites patients, eye care providers, health officials and the public to join forces in creating awareness of the disease – the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide.
Most patients with glaucoma show no symptoms, so catching it early is essential in the prevention of sight loss.
As such, we’re encouraging those over the age of 40 who might not have had a sight test in the last two years to book one today.
Zoe Richmond, Clinical Director at LOCSU, said: “Early diagnosis is the most effective way to prevent or slow down sight loss through Glaucoma. The majority of patients who go on to be diagnosed with glaucoma are first identified during their regular sight test.
“LOCSU are encouraging all LOCs, professionals and practice teams to join us in raising awareness of glaucoma. Once vision is lost, it cannot be recovered. Therefore, early detection before sight loss is noticed by the patient, is essential.
“Anyone over the age of 40 who hasn’t had a sight test in the last two years should be encouraged to book one. Greater awareness of the condition helps to improve outcomes for patients, so holding a conversation about glaucoma may just make a difference.”
You can get involved in that conversation by using the hashtag #GlaucomaWeek across social media from Monday 9th March until Sunday 15th March.
Together, we can fight for a glaucoma-free world.
