…The Ophthalmology team highlighted the importance of early detection in slowing the progression of glaucoma and that regular eye tests are the only way to detect ‘symptomless’ glaucoma early…
…the sight thief…
…At least 2.2 billion people globally have near or distant vision impairments, with nearly half of them potentially preventable…
…Africa is the region with the highest incidence and prevalence of glaucoma…
…About 3 million Nigerians are likely to go blind if not properly managed…
- Glaucoma is the most common cause of irreversible blindness
- One out of every 5 persons with glaucoma is likely to go blind
- Glaucoma affects people of all ages, especially those above 40 years old
- Early detection is key to prevent visual loss.
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The Periscope Global
The Ophthalmology Department, joined by the Information and Media Relations Department of Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, MAUTH Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria, marked World Glaucoma Week, under the theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World”.
The initiative Tuesday, launched in collaboration with Drugfield Pharmaceutical Limited and Micro Novas Pharmaceutical Limited featured an awareness campaign within the hospital and extended to Yola ancient city’s ancient market.
“Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital Yola joins the world in celebrating World Glaucoma Week in March of each year with the aim of increasing the spotlight on this disease and inviting the target age group to visit ophthalmologists to conduct the necessary tests and checkups for the early detection,” Dr Mustapha Tajuddeen the Head of Ophthalmology Department said.
The Consultant Ophthalmologist, leading the team for the sensitisation campaign, noted that Glaucoma is the second-largest cause of blindness for the elderly.
Mustapha explained that Glaucoma is described as “the silent thief” as its symptoms rarely appear.
“High intraocular pressure is a major factor in the disease, leading to damage to the optic nerve tissue and may lead to blindness if not detected early, ” Dr Mustapha warned.
Groups of traders at the Yola ancient city market that were reached out with the campaign commended the initiative, obliging that they would visit the hospital for the optical test.
Alhaji Ali Kachalla is the head of the market who coordinated different groups, with the help of the PRO, for the sensitisation.
Kachalla, who said without eyes there would not be business transactions, described the activity as a welcome development.
He commended MAUTH Yola, and Ophthalmology Department in collaboration with the Drugfield Pharmaceutical Limited for carrying the awareness campaign to the market.
This year’s theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World” focuses on bringing communities worldwide to fight together against glaucoma blindness.
Become involved and be a part of the activities organized over the globe. Help raise awareness worldwide and learn more about glaucoma.