Glaucoma Awareness Month approaches


As January approaches so does Glaucoma Awareness Month which has been put together by several leading Glaucoma foundations and charities in America. With only 50% of people who suffer from glaucoma actually being aware that they suffer from the condition; the necessity of knowing the risks of the disease are essential. As glaucoma can lead to blindness it is vital that people are receiving regular eye tests in order to diagnose the disease as quickly as possible. Glaucoma specialist, James Heltzer, comments that eye examinations are one of the most effective ways of reducing risks of glaucoma developing into blindness, particularly in those with diabetes.

November itself saw a Diabetes Awareness week which also spelt out concerns and precautions for anyone who is at risk of suffering from diabetes and its devastating side-effects. Alongside glaucoma, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and it is thought that together they can lead to even more damaging consequences. In recent studies it was thought that people who suffer from glaucoma and diabetes are increasingly likely to have visual problems, whereas people suffering from diabetes are also thought to be at a higher risk of suffering from glaucoma. It appears that there is a vicious circle when it comes to these two diseases, which is why it is imperative that people are aware of the effects, particularly those who are suffering from either of the diseases.

Glaucoma is a slow progressing disease in most cases and leads to damage of the optic nerve and cells in the retina. Diabetic retinopathy also causes damage to the cells within the retina, hence why the two disease together severely increase the risk of visual problems. Thus, in January, Glaucoma Awareness Month is hoped to encourage people to seek regular eye tests and to give out important information about glaucoma and diabetes. It only takes several minutes to sit down and read the information available on glaucoma and diabetes which could help improve your health and save your sight.

21st December 2009

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