Glaucoma awareness month (January)
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. It’s a time to learn about glaucoma, a leading cause of vision loss and blindness. Help us spread the word about this debilitating sight condition.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve (a bundle of millions of nerve fibres that transmit electrical signals from the retina at the back of your eye to the visual cortex in your brain). This damage is usually caused by fluid build-up in the eye, which increases eye pressure. As of yet, there’s no cure for glaucoma, but starting treatment as early as possible can help limit vision loss.
About Glaucoma
Glaucoma Insights
Did you know…
- It’s known as ‘the sneak thief of sight.’ Glaucoma is a silent illness, with no obvious symptoms in the early stages. Many people with glaucoma may not notice any change in their vision until significant damage has already occurred.
- It’s one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Glaucoma affects over 60 million people globally, making it the second leading cause of blindness. The WHO estimates that by 2040, that number could rise to over 110 million.
- It affects all age groups. It’s more common in older adults, but glaucoma can occur at any age. A rare form known as congenital glaucoma can develop in babies shortly after birth. One of our supporters was born with congenital glaucoma. Read her story here.
- It’s more common among certain demographics. People of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent are believed to be at higher risk of contracting glaucoma.
- Early detection can preserve sight. With regular eye exams, glaucoma can often be detected early, allowing treatment to prevent or slow vision loss.
- There are 4 different types of glaucoma. The two most common types are open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma; other forms exist, including normal-tension glaucoma and pigmentary glaucoma. Read more about the types here.
- Treatment has evolved: In the past, glaucoma could only be treated with eye drops or surgery. Today, Sight Research UK is funding experimental research to find treatments for this currently incurable condition.
Experimental treatments we are funding:
How can I raise awareness about glaucoma?
Share your story
If you or someone you know is dealing with glaucoma, sharing your personal experience can help to humanise the issue and inspire others to get checked. Share your story, just like Sheila.
- You can share your story with us by filling out our short form.
- Or, you can email hello@sightresearchuk.org or call 0117 325 7757, and we can arrange a time for you to share your glaucoma experience on a video or phone call.
