July - Glaucoma Awareness Month 2011
As the population ages, and people live longer, it is estimated 76,000 New Zealanders will have glaucoma by 2031. Currently there are about 68,000 New Zealanders over the age of 40 with this devastating disease.
Glaucoma is the number one cause of preventable blindness in New Zealand, and worryingly 50% of those with the disease don’t know they have it. That’s because there are usually no symptoms until vision has already been damaged.
Chair of Glaucoma New Zealand (GNZ), Professor Helen Danesh-Meyer, says glaucoma is a significant health issue.
“Next to cancer and heart disease, blindness is the thing most people fear the most, as it has such a huge impact on their quality of life – whether it’s the ability to drive, read, watch television, enjoy hobbies, or even stay in their own homes,” she says.
Dr Danesh-Meyer stresses that early detection of glaucoma is the key to preventing blindness. GNZ recommends that everyone has an eye examination for glaucoma by age 45, and every 5 years after that until 60, and 3 yearly after 60.
“However, at any age, if you notice changes in your eyesight you should have your eyes examined at that time. For example, if you need hobby glasses, it would be a good idea to have your eyes checked in case there is a problem,” she adds.
Dr Danesh-Meyer also stresses it’s important for people to know if glaucoma runs in their family, because if it does, the risk increases ten-fold.
People in the following categories also have a higher risk of glaucoma; 60 years and over; short sightedness (myopia); high blood pressure; or previous eye injury.
“Early detection is the first step, but it’s also important to know that 98% of those who comply with their prescribed treatment will not go blind,” she says.
GNZ’s annual awareness appeal runs throughout the month of July. The success of this campaign is also dependent upon health professionals conveying the message to patients and supporting the appeal in any way they can. A poster is being displayed in ASB Branches nationwide and in NZ buses and is available along with additional material from GNZ to assist practices in getting involved. There is also a media kit available to provide information and statistics aimed to help practices interact with local media.
Anyone interested in getting involved should contact GNZ, 0800 452 826 or email info@glaucoma.org.nz
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