New Delhi, March 8, 2024: Matanand Foundation, in collaboration with ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, will launch a nation-wide seven-day Glaucoma Awareness Week Campaign '#GlaucomaMuktBharat' starting from March 10.
The campaign to be held from March 10 to March 16 across different parts of India aligns with 'World Glaucoma Week' and aims at raising awareness about glaucoma, a degenerative eye disease that affects millions across the country and worldwide.
Glaucoma, often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," poses a significant threat to vision health, with its gradual progression leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. With an estimated 12 million individuals affected in India alone, and up to 50% of cases going undetected, the need for awareness and early detection is paramount.
The Glaucoma Awareness Week Campaign will encompass a series of field activities designed to educate communities specifically targeting the youth about the importance of regular eye check-ups and early intervention.
As part of the campaign, field teams will sport green T-shirts bearing the 'Glaucoma Mukt Bharat' logo to symbolise unity in the fight against glaucoma; doctors and their staff will receive green caps to signify their support for glaucoma awareness; posters and danglers featuring glaucoma awareness messages in regional languages will be distributed across target areas; and field teams will utilise patient education leaflets to educate individuals in OPD areas about glaucoma symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures.
To demonstrate the impact of glaucoma on vision, special goggles simulating glaucomatous vision will be showcased, allowing individuals to experience firsthand the challenges faced by those with the condition.
Commenting on the initiative, Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO of ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, stated: "Our aim with the '#GlaucomaMuktBharat' campaign is to empower individuals with knowledge about glaucoma and encourage proactive eye care practices. By fostering awareness and facilitating early detection, we can work towards reducing the burden of glaucoma-related blindness in India. This campaign is not just about raising awareness; it's about taking tangible steps to save sight and improve lives."
Pankaj Bendale, Glaucoma consultant, NIO, Pune, a renowned ophthalmologist and supporter of the campaign, emphasised the significance of community-driven initiatives in combating glaucoma.
"Undetected and untreated glaucoma can lead to irreversible visual impairment and blindness, making early detection crucial for preventing vision loss. It's imperative to increase awareness about glaucoma, especially in underserved communities, and implement effective screening programs to ensure equitable access to eye care services. Through this campaign, we aim to educate the public about the importance of regular eye check-ups and empower individuals to take proactive steps towards preserving their vision," he said.
In addition to field activities, the campaign emphasises the importance of regular eye check-ups, especially for individuals over 40 years of age and those with a family history of glaucoma. Early detection, coupled with timely intervention, can significantly improve outcomes and prevent vision loss.
Early detection and treatment are paramount in managing glaucoma, a condition that can often be asymptomatic in its early stages. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for identifying glaucoma early, as timely intervention and appropriate treatment can help preserve vision and enhance the quality of life for those affected by the condition.
