Hundreds of Bengalureans joined a walk to create awareness about Glaucoma . The walkathon was organised by Bangalore Nethralaya to create awareness on glaucoma which is considered as an irreversible 'silent thief of sight' and patients will not have any complaints until complete loss of vision. To help the needy, Bengaluru Nethralaya had also organised a free glaucoma evaluation on the occasion of the World Glaucoma Week.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sharada Paruchuri, senior glaucoma specialist at Bangalore Nethralaya said, "In the last one week, we were able to identify about 16 patients with glaucoma for the first time. In fact, two patients were already having advanced disease. With timely treatment, we could at least preserve our current vision."
Dr N Veerabhadra Rao (Chairman, Bangalore Nethralaya)said, "The 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."
Dr Sharada added, "Glaucoma is a silent thief of sight. We all have intraocular pressure and if this pressure is higher than required, that will damage the optic nerve slowly. Initially the patient will not have any symptoms. We can only diagnose by examining and evaluating the visual fields. Many people even now are coming to the doctors at the end stage of glaucoma after complete loss of field and vision. All people after 40 years of age should undergo glaucoma evaluation with eye checkup yearly. All who are having family history of glaucoma or diabetic, hypertensive, who are having glass powers need compulsory glaucoma evaluation " Dr Keerti Mukesh and other staff members of Bangalore Nethralaya were present.
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