National Glaucoma Awareness Month
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January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about this sight-stealing disease. Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, affecting over 4 million people in the United States, with approximately 35% experiencing related vision loss ¹.
Key Facts About Glaucoma:
- Glaucoma has no early symptoms, making comprehensive dilated eye exams the only way to detect it ².
- Higher Risk Groups: People over 60, African Americans over 40, Asian Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and those with a family history of glaucoma are at higher risk ².
- Importance of Early Detection: Starting treatment early can help prevent further vision loss and protect eyesight ².
Raising Awareness and Taking Action:
- Get Informed: Learn about glaucoma, its risk factors, and treatment options through resources like the Glaucoma Research Foundation and Prevent Blindness ¹ ³.
- Schedule an Eye Exam: Comprehensive dilated eye exams can detect glaucoma early, when it's easier to treat.
- Share Your Story: Help raise awareness by sharing your personal experience with glaucoma or supporting loved ones who have the condition.
By working together, we can promote awareness and encourage people to take action to protect their vision.