January is Glaucoma Awareness Month

Did you know that January is recognized as National Glaucoma Awareness Month? Each January, health providers and experts across the US come together to raise awareness about this increasingly common disease.

More than 3 million people in the US have glaucoma, and The National Eye Institute estimates that by 2030, that number will grow to 4.2 million.

Glaucoma is often referred to as a sneaky disease, because there are no symptoms. Sadly, once one’s vision is lost because of glaucoma, that loss is permanent. Incredibly, an individual can lose as much as 40% of their vision before a loss is even detected.

Currently, Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Also, it is more prevalent in African American and Latino populations. Other high-risk groups include those over age 60, family members of individuals already diagnosed, diabetics, and those who are especially nearsighted.

Experts believe that half of all people with glaucoma don’t even know they have it. Considering our aging population, today’s experts warn that we can have an epidemic of preventable blindness about to occur if we don’t raise enough awareness about glaucoma prevention and detection.

What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that degrade sight without warning. It most commonly affects middle-aged adults and the elderly, but it can affect people of all ages.

There is not yet a cure for glaucoma. Medication or surgery may slow or prevent further vision loss, but early detection is vital to stopping it’s progression.

Regular eye exams matter.
Because vision loss often begins with peripheral or side vision loss, a person with glaucoma may not notice anything until significant vision is lost.

The only true protection is a routine and comprehensive eye examination. If you have glaucoma is detected, treatment can begin immediately.

How can you help raise awareness?

• Talk to your friends and family about glaucoma.
  
• Those who have glaucoma should their family members know.
  
• Refer friends and family members www.glaucoma.org for more information.
  
• Individuals and organizations can all get involved through community fundraisers, classes, group discussions and more.
  
• When you come across information about glaucoma online, share it with your friends, family and social media networks.
  

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