Hyderabad :   

Almost 50 per cent of the newly diagnosed glaucoma patients today have been to an eye specialist in the last six months when they should have been examined at least five years ago.

This was revealed by the L V Prasad Eye Institute, which has taken up a campaign to spread awareness on glaucoma and the need for early detection.

More than 11.2 million Indians are estimated to be suffering from the disease, known to be the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. “We are trying to emphasise on the need for people for people to undergo a comprehensive eye examination including gonioscopy. What is alarming is that 90 per cent of glaucoma in the community is undetected, mostly because of lack of awareness,” the institute said.

Primarily, the institute has identified that people could be suffering from glaucoma, as the disease causes very late onset of symptoms

“Early diagnosis can reduce progression of the disease and prevent blindness. All it takes to prevent such a situation is regular comprehensive eye check-up,” it added.

source: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com / Business Line / Home> Economy / by The Hindu Bureau / Hyderabad – March 08th, 2013