#USA #Chicago #glaucoma #Eye Health #Prevent Blindness

Celebrating National Glaucoma Awareness Month with Prevent Blindness

Every January, the spotlight turns to glaucoma as it's recognized as National Glaucoma Awareness Month. This initiative is crucial in raising awareness about one of the leading causes of blindness, which often goes unnoticed until it's too late. Prevent Blindness, a distinguished organization dedicated to preventing blindness and preserving sight, is at the forefront of these awareness efforts.

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss or even blindness, often dubbed the "Silent Thief of Sight" because the symptoms can develop gradually and often unnoticed. The condition is particularly insidious because peripheral vision loss can start subtly and worsen over time without the individual realizing it.

Understanding Glaucoma and Its Types

The Complexity of Glaucoma

There are various types of glaucoma, but the two most prevalent forms are Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Angle-Closure Glaucoma. Other types include Normal-Tension Glaucoma and Secondary Glaucoma, which can result from eye injuries or other health conditions like diabetes. In rare cases, a form known as Congenital Glaucoma can occur in infants, showcasing the significance of awareness across all age groups.

Who Is at Risk?

Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma:

• - Being aged 60 years or older (over 40 for African Americans)
• - Belonging to certain racial or ethnic groups, such as African American, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American
• - Having a family history of glaucoma
• - Previous experiences with raised eye pressure, trauma, or long-term use of steroids
• - Individuals with diabetes are at twice the risk of developing glaucoma, highlighting the intersection of chronic health conditions and eye health.

Jeff Todd, the president and CEO of Prevent Blindness, emphasizes the importance of early detection: “There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but early detection and timely treatment can slow significant vision loss.” This statement highlights the organization's commitment to providing much-needed resources and support for those affected.

Educational Initiatives

To support patients and care partners, Prevent Blindness has developed a host of free educational materials. These include downloadable fact sheets, informative videos, and a webpage dedicated to glaucoma resources. One exciting initiative is the upcoming **