SKN Observes World Glaucoma Week

(ZIZ News) — The Federation has joined the rest of the world in launching World Glaucoma Week, which runs until Sunday, March 13, under the theme: “Prevent Glaucoma 2016”.

In an address to the nation on Sunday Minister of State with responsibility for health, the Honourable Wendy Phipps, noted that the campaign objective is achieved via the organisation of sensitization programmes and projects involving key stakeholders

This is all part of the effort to achieve global awareness of glaucoma as the “Silent Thief of Sight”.

“The growing reference of glaucoma as the “Silent Thief of Sight” is due to the fact that the condition can occur gradually over a long time without detection. In many cases, symptoms only manifest when the disease is far advanced. Vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be reversed. As such, any treatment rendered thereafter is meant to prevent further loss,” she said.

The calendar of events includes home visits to clients with glaucoma, a sponsored health walk, a visit to the Cardin Home with follow up glaucoma assessments for the residents and continuing medical education on the topic “Glaucoma in the 21st Century.