Yomi Durojaye
As World celebrates Glaucoma Day, Orile Agege General Hospital has joined its counterparts across the globe to celebrate the annual World Glaucoma Week, themed: “Uniting for a Glaucoma-free world”, with an event held yesterday at the Opthalmology Department of the hospital.
The event emphasised the importance of collaborating in early detection, timely treatment and prevention of vision loss. The annual campaign is an initiative designed to raise awareness all over the world on Eye health.
Speaking on the significance of the Day, the MD/CEO, Orile Agege General Hospital, Dr. Sola 'Pitan who was ably represented by Dr. Temitope Bakare, Director of Training at Orile Agege General Hospital, Lagos "we have embarked on Free Glaucoma eyes Screening test for 2500 residents in Lagos from the 10th of March 10th-14th of March, 2025.
Dr. Bakare affirmed that to reduce the issues of low awareness and problems with early diagnosis and management, the Opthalmology Clinic schedules a free Glaucoma screening for members of staff, patients, residents and others, in a way to key in lots of people into the initiative for the prevention of blindness from Glaucoma.
Earlier, “From the inception of the annual Glaucoma campaign, the magnitude of people's participation has greatly increased, and it's the same with today's free screening”.
The HOD Eye Centre, OAGH, Dr. Shaidu Nasiru, Consultant Opthalmologist, Eye Clinic, thus supported the continual advocacy of Glaucoma awareness for better Eye health and also promised the hospital's services for affected people.
He also speaks on essence of the ongoing Free Glaucoma Eyes Screening for 2500 participants in Lagos, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in early detection, timely treatment, and prevention of vision loss, is termed as the "silent thief of sight".
Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs. Ayodele Amokan, Dr Mrs. Atinuke Ajolokor, a Opthalmology Consultant in a brief interview with AgegePulse Magazine said, early detection is essential because vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible and permanent. Only by regular, comprehensive eye examinations that measure the intraocular pressure, examine the optic nerve and test the visual field can we catch glaucoma before significant damage has occurred.
Both highlighted the key risk factors which include, above the age of 40 (especially if above the age of 60), Family background of glaucoma
High intraocular pressure (IOP),
Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and hypertension.
Preventive measures such as regular eye screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, and protective eyewear can reduce the risk of developing glaucoma or delay its progression
Highlights of the programme include health talk, experience sharing and Glaucoma screening for staff, patients and among others.
