This week is World Glaucoma Week; a global initiative initiated by The World Glaucoma Association in an effort to raise awareness and understanding of the condition. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness, both in the UK and globally, and many people unfortunately do not even know that they are living with it. The fact that there is no cure for glaucoma makes it even more essential to actively learn and raise awareness; because ultimately, early intervention can prevent further vision loss. Keep reading to learn a little bit more about what it is and who it can affect.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve (the nerve that connects the eye to the brain). The damage is usually caused by a build up of fluid in the front part of the eye, which leads to an increase in eye pressure and it is this increase in ocular pressure that is detrimental to the optic nerve. There are many different types of Glaucoma, the most common one being Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG). It is often referred to as the silent enemy of vision as most cases are asymptomatic until the disease has progressed to later stages. For this reason, diagnosis is often delayed and more worryingly, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible sight loss.
What puts me at a higher risk of Glaucoma?
Like most disease processes, there are certain factors that increase someones risk of Glaucoma. These include:
Family History - One of the most important risk factors. If you have a parent or sibling with
Glaucoma, you are at a significantly higher risk of developing this condition yourself.
Age - Your risk of glaucoma increases as you get older.
Ethnicity - People of African, Caribbean & Asian origin are known to have a higher risk.
Other medical conditions - Short sightedness, Long sightedness, certain medications, Diabetes.
Celebrities with Glaucoma
Some familiar faces who have Glaucoma include:
Bono
The lead singer of band U2 announced he had glaucoma in 2014.
Whoopi Goldberg
American actress, comedian, author & TV personality is also living with Glaucoma.
Andrea Bocelli
Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli was diagnosed with Congenital Glaucoma at 5 months of age and became completely blind at age 12.
Fetty Wap
American rapper, singer & song writer Fetty Wap was born with Congenital Glaucoma, lost an eye at 6 months old & was fitted with an ocular prosthetic (which he no longer wears).
Vision loss caused by Glaucoma is not recoverable, and as I mentioned previously, many people are unaware that they have it due to its silent nature. Therefore, I strongly encourage regular eye examinations and a proactive approach to open discussion and learning about it. Successful management of glaucoma requires people to attend their routine appointments in order for early detection. The earlier the diagnosis, the more vision there is to save.
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