Screening for and Treatment of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness and most common cause of irreversible visual loss. In 2006, the number of individuals estimated to be bilaterally blind from glaucoma was projected to increase from 8.4 million in 2010 to 11.1 million by 2020. In Africa, glaucoma accounts for 15% of blindness and it is the region with the highest incidence and prevalence of the disease. The majority of patients in African countries often present when they have lost vision and it is too late to make any significant impact. Improving surveillance systems, highlighting risk among family members of cases, and effectiveness of care once treatment is initiated are therefore crucial in reducing blindness from the disease in the region. Once detected, therapy for glaucoma can arrest or slow its deterioration in the majority of cases.