The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, has raised alarm over the widespread risk of glaucoma among Nigerians, describing it as a major cause of irreversible blindness.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, on Monday, to mark World Glaucoma Week (WGW), with the theme: “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World: See the future clearly,” Salako emphasized the importance of regular eye check-ups, and early detection of the disease.
Represented by the Director of Port Health Services, Dr. Akpan Nse, the minister disclosed that glaucoma affects an estimated 60.5 million people worldwide, with nearly 87 percent residing in developing countries, including Nigeria.
According to him, data from the Nigerian Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey (2005-2007) indicated that 4.2 percent of Nigerians were blind, with 16.7 percent of those cases linked to glaucoma.
He identified African ancestry, increasing age (above 40 years), family history, high eye pressure, diabetes, hypertension, and prolonged use of steroid eye drops as key risk factors.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has been actively supporting targeted screening, public awareness programs, advocacy, and leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes,” he stated.
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The ministry, he noted, recently launched the national glaucoma screening and treatment guidelines to enhance screening and management.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by the National Coordinator of the National Eye Health Programme, Dr. Oteri Okolo, urged Nigerians to prioritize regular eye examinations to prevent vision loss.
“Many of us know someone diagnosed with glaucoma at a late stage, leading to significant impact on their vision and life. This is why early detection is crucial,” she said.
Okolo further stressed the need for stakeholders to unite in the fight against glaucoma, advocating for policies, and interventions that prevent blindness.
As part of efforts to improve eye care access, Onesight EssilorLuxottica Foundation Programme Manager, James Onele, highlighted the role of good vision in enhancing the quality of life.
He announced the launch of two new vision centers in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, and Idanre, Ondo State, with plans for further expansion.
The World Glaucoma Week, observed annually in the second week of March, aims to raise awareness about the disease, and encourage proactive eye health practices.
