World Glaucoma Week, March 6-12, 2022

Overview

World Glaucoma Week is celebrated on March 6-12, 2022. World Glaucoma Week is a global initiative of the World Glaucoma Association (WGA) aims to raise awareness on glaucoma.

‘The world is bright, save your sight’

Facts

• Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive, degenerative disorder of the optic nerve that produces characteristic visual field damage. Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness, and importantly: it is irreversible.
• It is estimated that around 80 million people have glaucoma worldwide. Approximately 50% of the individuals with glaucoma are unaware that they have the disease, and this number may be even higher in underdeveloped countries.
• Glaucoma is the first cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
• It is estimated that approximately 50% of glaucoma cases are undiagnosed.
• While it is true that the disease is incurable, it is also true that 90% of the blindness caused by glaucoma could be prevented by early detection and treatment.
• In its early stages, glaucoma is asymptomatic.
• If untreated, glaucoma may progress to blindness.
• Periodic testing allows early diagnosis to prevent visual disability.

Message

“World Glaucoma Week is a unique initiative that puts a spotlight on glaucoma as the leading cause of preventable irreversible blindness worldwide. The prompt diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma can prevent needless vision impairment, however, so many are unaware they have the disease or may not have access to much-needed care. As the numbers are expected to increase exponentially, it is a growing public health concern that needs more attention and effective eye health systems. The active coming together of the international community with colleagues and key stakeholders through events to stimulate awareness and dialogue is a show of our shared commitment to improving glaucoma care for patients around the world.” – Neeru Gupta MD PhD MBA, President, World Glaucoma Association

Source of info: Institut Català de Retina, World Glaucoma Week, World Glaucoma Association (WGA), www.glaucomapatients.org

Recommended readings

• World Glaucoma Week: ‘The world is bright, save your sight’
• World Sight Day 2021: Love Your Eyes!
• Syllabus for Licensing Examination of PCL in Ophthalmic Science
• International days, weeks and years of Public Health Concern
• World Sight Day 2020: Hope In Sight