Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-13 05:49:07
The National Eye Health Programme (NEHP) of the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Sheikh Zayed Regional Eye Care Centre, recently participated in World Glaucoma Week in the Gambia. Dr. Winston Ceesay, CEO and Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist at SZRECC, highlighted that glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. He revealed that 1,004 cases of glaucoma were diagnosed at SZRECC in 2023, with the majority of patients undergoing treatment.
Dr. Ceesay addressed the audience at the event and provided alarming statistics on glaucoma. In 2020, an estimated 76 million people worldwide had glaucoma, a number projected to increase to 95.5 million by 2030. Glaucoma caused severe vision impairment and blindness in millions of individuals, with 11% of all global blindness in adults aged 50 years and older attributed to the condition. By 2040, it is estimated that 22 million people worldwide will be blind from glaucoma.
World Glaucoma Week serves as a global initiative to raise awareness about the disease. Dr. Ceesay emphasized the importance of regular eye checks to detect glaucoma early. This year, the week was celebrated from March 10 to 16 under the theme “UNITING FOR A GLAUCOMA-FREE WORLD.” Activities included screenings at SZRECC and other eye clinics nationwide, as well as health education on TV and radio.
Dr. Ceesay urged everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to have their eyes examined, as early detection of glaucoma is crucial in preventing irreversible blindness. He explained that glaucoma is a group of eye disorders with few symptoms in the early stages but can lead to vision loss or complete blindness due to optic nerve damage.
Currently, approximately 80 million people worldwide have glaucoma, with half unaware of their condition. The prevalence of glaucoma is higher in people of African descent, with Africa having a burden of glaucoma twice the global average. Despite this, 90% of individuals of African descent with glaucoma are unaware of their condition.
In Africa, only 1 in 20 people are aware that they have glaucoma, leading to late presentations to eye care providers and increased risk of vision loss. Glaucoma in individuals of African descent often has an earlier onset and aggressive course compared to other populations.
During the celebration at Kanifing General Hospital, Mr. Sarjo Kanyi, Programme Manager of NEHP, and Mr. Vincent Mendy, Regional Programme Manager, delivered impactful speeches. Alasana Touray, CEO of the center, led a tour of the clinic for attendees.
In conclusion, World Glaucoma Week serves as a reminder of the importance of eye health and the need for regular screenings to detect glaucoma early. With the global prevalence of glaucoma on the rise, raising awareness and promoting routine eye care are essential in preventing irreversible blindness from this condition.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
