Protect Your Vision: Act Now This World Glaucoma Week
Seeing Clearly Starts with You
Glaucoma is often called the ‘silent thief of sight’—and for good reason. This insidious eye disease develops gradually, without warning signs, until significant and irreversible vision loss occurs. But here’s the empowering truth: early detection can slow its progression and help preserve your sight.
This World Glaucoma Week (March 9-15, 2025), we’re urging Australians to take control of their eye health. Your risk is higher if you’re 40 or older, have diabetes, or have a family history of glaucoma. A simple eye test could make all the difference.
The Invisible Threat Affecting Over 300,000 Australians
More than 300,000 (approximately) Australians live with glaucoma*, but half of them don’t even know it. Why? Because glaucoma doesn’t announce itself with symptoms in its early stages. By the time you notice changes in your vision, the damage is already done.
The good news? Regular eye tests can detect glaucoma before it steals your sight. With early intervention, treatments like prescription eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery can help slow its progression and protect your vision for years to come.
Your sight matters—protect it now
Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma
1. How is glaucoma detected?
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes measuring eye pressure, assessing the optic nerve, testing peripheral vision, and checking the drainage angle of the eye. Regular screenings are essential, especially for those at higher risk.
2. Can glaucoma be cured?
There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but early detection and treatment can help manage the condition and slow its progression. Treatments include medicated eye drops, laser procedures, and surgery to reduce eye pressure and preserve vision.
3. What are the risk factors for glaucoma?
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but factors that increase your risk include being over 40, having a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, high eye pressure, or previous eye injuries. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection.
4. If I already had an eye test last year, can I get another eye test for glaucoma?
Yes! Regular eye tests are vital, especially if you’re at risk. Eye health can change over time, and early detection is key to managing glaucoma. Your optometrist can determine how frequently you should have check-ups based on your individual risk factors.
Take Action Today—Your Eyes Will Thank You
Your eyesight is precious. Please don’t leave it to chance. This World Glaucoma Week, make a proactive choice. Book an eye test today and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Awareness, action, and early detection are the keys to safeguarding your vision.
Join the conversation and help spread awareness! Follow #GlaucomaWeek to learn more.
With a simple, bulk-billed eye test, not only is looking after your eyes affordable and easy, but you’re on the road to protecting your eyes and keeping an eye out for that ‘silent thief of sight.’
