Around 11.2 million individuals aged 40 and above in India are believed to have glaucoma, but only a small percentage is actually aware of their condition, raising significant concerns among experts in the field. The insidious nature of glaucoma is highlighted, with over 70 percent of cases going undetected due to the absence of early symptoms, making it a major challenge in terms of timely diagnosis and treatment.
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that impacts the optic nerve, leading to progressive vision loss, and it is identified as the third most common cause of blindness in India. Referred to as the "sneak thief of sight," glaucoma is particularly worrisome due to its asymptomatic early stages, reinforcing the vital role of regular eye examinations for early detection. Symptoms of glaucoma may include blurred vision, difficulty in low light, reduced peripheral vision, and seeing halos around lights, underscoring the importance of seeking prompt medical attention if any of these signs manifest. Vision loss resulting from glaucoma can have severe consequences on individuals' quality of life, affecting daily activities and leading to emotional challenges such as depression and anxiety.