From March 6 through March 12, World Glaucoma Week will aim to promote awareness of eye health and the importance of regular eye exams to decrease the onset of incidences of glaucoma. Glaucoma encompasses a number of eye conditions that incur irreversible damage to the optic nerve. It is the second leading worldwide cause of irreversible blindness. Early diagnosis and treatment of the disease can prevent blindness.

Before debilitating sight infractions occur, glaucoma can affect life on a day-to-day basis. Glaucoma Australia’s National Executive Officer, Beverley Lindsell notes that glaucoma can “rob individuals of their quality of life,” with even daily activities like “driving, locating items, walking on stairs and recognising faces” becoming difficult. Those with glaucoma are up to four times more likely than an unaffected Australian to have a car accident, as glaucoma affects peripheral vision by blurring sections of eyesight.  About 50 percent of glaucoma sufferers remain undiagnosed, thereby threatening both the individual’s health and the safety of others while driving. The best course of action is early prevention.

During World Glaucoma Week, take a moment to get an eye exam. The primary risk factors of glaucoma include:

- Those 40 years of age or older
- A family history of glaucoma
- High intraocular pressure
- Marked nearsightedness
- Being of African descent
- Being of Asian descent

Glaucoma develops gradually and can be diagnosed and treated with ample time if caught during the early stages. Be “eye wise” and make eye check ups a regular yearly health routine.