Glaucoma cases are increasing in India; check-ups essential

Glaucoma is becoming a serious health issue in India, affecting over 12 million people. This eye disease damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss or blindness if not treated. Alarmingly, almost 90% of cases in India are undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness, according to doctors. Experts predict that Asia will see a rise in glaucoma cases, with an estimated 27.8 million new cases by 2040. India and China will be heavily impacted. Currently, about 1.2 million people in India are blind due to glaucoma, which is 5.5% of all blindness cases in the country. The disease mostly affects adults over 40, with 2.7% to 4.3% of elderly people experiencing it. One of the main challenges of glaucoma is that it often has no early symptoms. Many do not realize they have the disease until they start losing vision. This is why regular eye check-ups are essential. Glaucoma occurs when high pressure inside the eye damages nerve fibers. Treatment can involve eye drops, medication, or surgery. There are different types of glaucoma. Open angle glaucoma is the most common and can be identified during eye tests without early symptoms. Narrow angle glaucoma causes severe pain and vision issues, especially in dim light. Secondary glaucoma can arise from eye injuries, inflammation, or certain medications. Congenital glaucoma can occur in children who are born with poorly formed eye drainage channels. Dr. Asha M S, a glaucoma expert, emphasizes the value of early detection. Many people, unaware they have glaucoma, often question the need for eye tests if they see well. Regular eye exams are crucial as most cases are discovered during these check-ups. To combat the rising numbers, more awareness campaigns are needed, especially for those over 40 and those at higher risk due to family history or health conditions. Accessible healthcare and regular screenings can significantly reduce the cases of glaucoma and prevent blindness in millions of people in India.