Press Release
Results from a recent CNIB survey suggest many Canadians lack critical knowledge about glaucoma and are not taking the necessary steps to detect it early.
The survey found Canadians over the age of 40 hold significant misconceptions about glaucoma—the second-leading cause of vision loss among seniors in Canada.
Seventy percent of respondents incorrectly believed glaucoma has associated symptoms, with one-third associating the disease with pain or a change in how their eyes feel.
In fact, glaucoma–commonly known as the “silent thief”–usually is painless and progresses without noticeable symptoms.
This progression can lead to serious vision loss and total blindness.
“It’s possible to have glaucoma and not even know it,” said Dr. Keith Gordon, vice-president of research for the CNIB. “In fact, only half of the 250,000 Canadians living with glaucoma are aware they have this serious disease.”
The survey also found that close to one-third (28 percent) of respondents have not had their eyes examined in the past two years—despite the fact an overwhelming majority (88 percent) name sight as the most important of their five senses.
Unfortunately, many Canadians do not learn they have glaucoma until it’s too late.
Although 60 percent of respondents believe glaucoma is curable, the reality is the disease cannot be cured and, if not treated, can lead to progressive and permanent vision loss.
When detected early, however, treatment options are available to control the disease and prevent it from progressing.
“Regular eye examinations by an eye doctor are the best way to maintain vision health and prevent glaucoma from sneaking up on you,” said Dr. Yvonne Buys, associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Toronto and president of the Canadian Glaucoma Society.
To raise awareness about glaucoma, and the importance of early detection, the CNIB is launching a nation-wide initiative called “Eye Care About You.”
Beginning March 9, Canadians can visit www.eyecareaboutyou.ca to learn the facts on glaucoma as well as participate in an online photo contest to win a grand prize of photography equipment valued at $3,000.
Entrants are asked to upload a photograph depicting the people, places, or things they care about, along with a description of why that image is important to them.
