Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness globally,
especially in developing countries. In 2020, it was said to be the cause of
blindness in about 3.61 million people, representing 8.4% of all blindness
cases. In addition, glaucoma caused moderate and severe vision impairment in
about 4.14 million people, which is 1.4% of all moderate and severe vision
impairment cases.
Figures from the World Health Organisation indicate that the
global prevalence of glaucoma is estimated to be 3.54%, with the highest
numbers in Africa. This means approximately 80 million people worldwide live
with glaucoma. This number is expected to increase to 111.8 million by 2040.
Now, glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the
optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This
damage can lead to gradual loss of vision, possibly leading to irreversible
blindness if not effectively managed. Although there is no cure for glaucoma,
early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of vision loss and help
protect vision.
Four types of glaucoma are easily identifiable: open-angle
glaucoma, angle-closure glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma.
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type and is characterised by slow,
gradual vision loss.
Angle closure glaucoma is less common but can cause sudden
and severe vision loss if not treated promptly. Congenital glaucoma is present
at birth, often due to abnormal eye development. And secondary glaucoma
develops as a result of another underlying condition, such as diabetes or a
tumour.
The biggest risk for developing glaucoma is high pressure in
the eye. This risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, starting after
40, and more significantly after 60. Having a family history of glaucoma also
increases your chances of having it. Certain genes have similarly been identified
that can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
In addition, underlying medical conditions like diabetes,
high blood pressure, and certain eye diseases can raise the risk of glaucoma.
Previous eye injuries or certain types of eye surgery can sometimes lead to
glaucoma. Long-term use of corticosteroids, especially as eye drops, can
likewise increase the risk of secondary glaucoma.
Having thinner-than-normal corneas can also increase the
risk of developing glaucoma. Certain eye conditions like pigmentary dispersion
syndrome or uveitis can equally contribute to glaucoma. Sadly, Black, Hispanic,
and Asian people may have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
In Nigeria, approximately 5% of the population is said to
have glaucoma and around 0.7% of blindness in the country is attributed to the
disease. A significant portion of glaucoma cases in the country is primary
open-angle glaucoma. Unfortunately, a substantial number of individuals with
glaucoma in Nigeria are either undiagnosed or untreated.
The truth is that various factors contribute to the low
utilisation of available resources for glaucoma detection and treatment in
Nigeria. For example, many people are not aware of glaucoma or its symptoms.
This leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Limited communication and
education about the disease further worsen the problem.
Also, the high cost of glaucoma treatment, including
medication and surgery, can be a major barrier for many Nigerians. Even with
public funding initiatives, the coverage and accessibility of these schemes are
often limited.
In addition, Nigeria faces a shortage of specialised eye
care professionals and facilities, particularly in rural areas. The lack of
proper equipment and diagnostic tools in many hospitals further limits the
capacity to diagnose and manage glaucoma effectively.
Furthermore, gender disparities, low education levels, and
unemployment can limit access to information and healthcare resources. Poverty
can equally lead to a lack of resources for healthcare, making it difficult to
seek and adhere to treatment plans. Poor patient compliance with medication
regimens and follow-up appointments can undermine the effectiveness of
treatment.
Research has shown that some patients may refuse glaucoma
surgery, even when it is the recommended treatment. Concerns about the risks
and potential complications of surgery, as well as a lack of understanding of
the benefits, often contribute to this reluctance.
Now, glaucoma usually progresses without noticeable symptoms
in the early stages, making regular eye examinations critical for early detection.
It is recommended that people at higher risk get comprehensive dilated eye
examinations every 1 to 2 years, as early detection and treatment can help
control the disease and prevent further vision loss.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency that
requires immediate treatment to prevent blindness. Its symptoms include
headache; blurred vision; sudden, severe eye pain; and nausea. Anyone
experiencing these symptoms must therefore seek medical care without delay.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including not smoking,
regular exercise, and a balanced diet, can help reduce the risk of developing
certain conditions that can contribute to glaucoma.
If you have a family history of glaucoma or are at higher
risk, you need to talk to your doctor about your risk factors and how often you
should get checked.
To be on the safe side, it is important that we are all
aware of the importance of eye health and seek medical care when necessary. And
if you have concerns about your eyes or vision, there is no better time than
now to contact your doctor or ophthalmologist. Any further delay may lead to
serious, avoidable consequences.
culled: theCable
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