Indore (Madhya Pradesh): "Glaucoma is responsible for blindness in 1.2 million people in India, accounting for 5.5% of total blindness, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss." This alarming statistic, cited from a 2023 study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) database, was highlighted by senior glaucoma specialist Dr Amit Solanki during an awareness session titled "Living with Glaucoma" on Wednesday.
Dr Solanki emphasised that glaucoma often goes undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging. "The prevalence of glaucoma among adults aged 40 and above in India ranges between 2.7% and 4.3%. The study further predicts that by 2040, Asia will see an additional 27.8 million people affected by glaucoma, with India and China bearing the greatest share of this burden," he explained.
Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection, particularly for those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of glaucoma or conditions like diabetes. "Monitoring eye pressure through routine screenings can help detect glaucoma in its early stages and prevent severe vision loss," Dr Solanki advised. A healthy diet plays a key role in eye health, and Dr Solanki encouraged patients to consume foods rich in omega-3s, green vegetables, and nuts.
He also cautioned against activities that could increase intraocular pressure, such as heavy lifting or yoga poses that involve bending the head downward. Beyond physical health, glaucoma can take an emotional toll on patients as they cope with vision loss. Dr Solanki underscored the importance of emotional support, stating, "Staying connected with family and joining glaucoma support groups can help patients manage the psychological challenges associated with the condition."
