The Nigeria Optometrists Affiliation (NOA), Taraba State Chapter, has decried the alarming price of glaucoma prevalence amongst Nigerians and known as on Authorities in any respect ranges to take pressing and proactive steps in direction of addressing the menace.
Angela Oleka, Chairperson, Nigeria Optometrists Affiliation (NOA), Taraba State Chapter, made the decision at a Screening Train carried out for sufferers for glaucoma in Jalingo, which shaped a part of week-long actions that marked the 2025 World Glaucoma Week within the State
The Optometrist famous that current findings had proven that 9 out of ten individuals stroll about ignorantly with glaucoma, main reason for irreversible blindness.
She urged Nigerians to keep away from searching for assist via herbs at any time when they’ve eye problem however all the time go for verify up of their eyes at the very least as soon as in a yr, emphasising that early detection of glaucoma, was key to preserving their sights
“The main reason for irreversible blindness is glaucoma. Sadly, current findings revealed that 9 in ten individuals transfer about with glaucoma with out their data. It is because, the silent killer someday comes with none symptom. So folks might go about their regular businessess with none urge to go and verify their eyes.
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“As a part of actions marking the 2025 glaucoma day, we determined to embark on creation of consciousness and screening of sufferers to establish these dwelling with glaucoma and we’re stunned that the prevalence of this illness is alarming”, she decried
Whereas calling on Authorities in any respect ranges to take proactive steps in direction of curbing the prevalence of glaucoma within the nation, Angela lamented that “right here in Taraba State, now we have solely three optometrists other than those employed by Federal Authorities at Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.
“This isn’t adequate. They’re grossly insufficient. There’s want for extra Eye care professionals at our Main Well being Care Centres, PHCs throughout the State in order that they’ll have direct contact with sufferers at ward degree, the place they’ll simply run to verify their eyes
“We at NOA, Taraba State chapter are able to accomplice with the federal government to get professionals who’re prepared and keen to return to Taraba even to remain within the villages and assist our folks if the state authorities can also be prepared and keen”, she mentioned.
