In an effort to inform and educate the populations of the Caribbean about Glaucoma, “the thief of sight” – Glaucoma Watch will keep you up-to-date with the latest information about Glaucoma symptoms, treatment and research in our region.
We will seek to clarify the myths and facts surrounding this disease and also offer hope through our stories of inspiration.
“Make eye health services available to the most vulnerable in the region” : An appeal has been made for Caribbean Governments to make eye health services affordable to the bottom fifty (50%) of their populations. In a message to mark World Glaucoma Week, the Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Council for the Blind (CCB), Arvel Grant, noted that in the wake of the current global financial crisis, regional governments must give those most at risk access to eye health services within the public sector. Page 1.
“Glaucoma – a significant public health problem” : The only way to tackle the challenge of Glaucoma in the developing world is to deal with poverty and the lack of resources. This is the view of Dr. Richard Wormald, one of the world’s leading Consultant (Ophthalmologist) on Glaucoma and of London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital. Page 2.
“Glaucoma patients : Their stories” : George and Sylvia Blythe both lost their vision due to Glaucoma. They live in the town of Savanna-la-Mar in the western parish of Westmoreland in Jamaica. Mr. O’Brian “Spriggy” Norton got what he calls the shock of his life only a few years ago when he was diagnosed with Glaucoma. Collin Mullings, 59, was diagnosed with Glaucoma following cataract surgery at the Mandeville Regional Hospital in Jamaica. 87 year old Sylvia King, used to declare that no man would ever touch her eyes. After being diagnosed with Glaucoma , she encourages every one to get their eyes checked before its too late. Hear about their stories and more. Page 3.
Download the 2012 Glaucoma Watch Bulletin here (pdf) .