Let’s raise awareness about glaucoma

Focus on Glaucoma IAPB
Written by Aly Bandali, Former President and CEO, published on March 12, 2019 Give the Gift of Sight

Today marks day three of World Glaucoma Week, a week to raise awareness about one of the world’s leading causes of irreversible blindness.

According to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 250,000 Canadians suffer from glaucoma.

Although glaucoma can be treated and sight often maintained (if diagnosed in time), an estimated seven million people are blind because of it, accounting for 2.8 percent of global visual impairment.

African woman with bright brown eyes
Even young adults need to watch their blood pressure to protect their eyes! Photo by Ric Rowan.

Although anyone may develop glaucoma, some people – such as those with high blood pressure – have a higher risk. You can learn about the risk factors for developing glaucoma on the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness’ website.

This week, help spread awareness about this blinding disease by sharing this blog post with your friends and family. And remember to book your next eye examination.

You can also make a donation to support our work. Early detection is the best way to prevent blindness due to glaucoma.  By facilitating eye screenings, providing eye exam equipment and supporting medical personnel at our partner facilities, Operation Eyesight helps prevent, diagnose and treat glaucoma.

Together we can help ensure that people living in Africa and Asia have access to the eye care services they need to preserve their vision – For All The World To See!