What is Glaucoma?

Known as the "sneak thief of sight," glaucoma is a specific pattern of optic nerve (the nerve that sends visual messages from the eye to the brain) damage and visual field loss caused by a number of different eye diseases. Most of these diseases are characterized by increased pressure within the eye. This pressure destroys the optic nerve. Without the optic nerve, tunnel vision and then blindness occur. Glaucoma is one of the most common and preventable causes of blindness.

What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

In most cases, there are no symptoms during the early stages of the disease.  As glaucoma progresses, it slowly damages the optic nerve fibers of the eye and the field of vision narrows.  Often, "blind spots" within the field of vision aren't realized until optic nerve damage has occurred.

Who is Most Likely to Develop Glaucoma?

People who:

• are more than 45 years of age
• have a family history of glaucoma
• have abnormally high pressure in the eyes
• are of African descent
• have diabetes
• are nearsighted (have myopia)
• have a history of regular, long-term steroid or cortisone use
• have had a previous eye injury.

How can Lions Clubs Organize Glaucoma Screenings?

First, Lions can contact local healthcare facilities to verify if a glaucoma screening program exists.  If it does, Lions can volunteer to help this community outreach project.

If a glaucoma screening program does not exist within the immediate area, Lions cans work with local healthcare professionals to arrange this service.

Organizing a Glaucoma Screening Includes:

• reviewing local legal and medical guidelines
• obtaining the services of eye care professionals
• securing a location for the screening
• informing the public about the glaucoma screening.  Submit notices to local media including newspapers, radio stations, television stations, etc. Create notices appropriate for posting at healthcare facilities, retirement homes, senior centers, places of worship, government offices, businesses and retail establishments.
• arranging for the transportation of medical equipment to the screening site.The devices aid eye care professionals in determining the presence of glaucoma and the progression of the disease.
• providing transportation for the elderly and others who need it.
• helping eye care professionals throughout the vision screening process.

For more information, click here to access the Lion Eye Health Program brochure about glaucoma or contact the Program Development Department at Lions Clubs International Headquarters at: programs@lionsclubs.org