Advertising feature
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
World Glaucoma Week is a collaborative effort between associations which aims to encourage people to have regular eye and optic nerve checks in order to detect glaucoma earlier and contribute to sight preservation.
This year World Glaucoma Week runs from March 10 to 16 with a range of awareness activities being held by ophthalmologists, optometrists and other eye care workers in hospitals, universities, clinics and private practices.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage of the optic nerve at the point where it leaves the eye to carry visual information to the brain.
According to figures from Glaucoma Australia, glaucoma affects approximately 300,000 Australians.
It can surprise people as in its early stages is painless and symptom-less.
It is estimated by Glaucoma Australia that in this country 50 per cent of the affected people are unaware they have the disease.
World Glaucoma Week aims to create awareness and acts as a reminder, particularly for those who have a family history of glaucoma as they are 10 times more likely to suffer themselves and early detection is key in managing the disease.
“As glaucoma cannot be self-detected, many people affected by it may not be aware of any vision loss. The best way to protect your vision from glaucoma is to have your eyes examined,” Alinta Southam-Rogers from EyeQ Optometrists said.
This advertising feature is supported by the following businesses. Click the link to learn more:
Optic nerve damage can occur due to poor blood flow or injury however the most common cause of damage is increased pressure within the eye.
“A number of glaucoma treatments are available which help to reduce the pressure in the eye with eye drops being the most widely used,” she said.
If you or someone you know has a history with glaucoma remind them to maintain regular comprehensive eye exams.
Glaucoma is irreversible so early detection of the disease is critical.
As glaucoma cannot be self-detected, many people affected by it may not be aware of any vision loss.
- Alinta Southam-Rogers, EyeQ Optometrists
EyeQ Optometrists are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of eyecare, personalised for each patient.
Staff strive to give patients an eyecare plan of quality, depth and understanding, guiding them through every aspect of their vision and eye health.
For more information visit eyeq.com.au.