Following a statement by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, declaring that “virtually all Nigerians are at risk of glaucoma,” health experts have emphasised the need for early detection.
They also stressed the importance of proactive measures to prevent vision loss and reduce the impact of the disease.
The experts who spoke on Wednesday in Abuja, discussed the increasing prevalence of glaucoma in Nigeria and the critical need for action.
Salako, speaking at a press briefing in Abuja to mark World Glaucoma Week, highlighted the country’s genetic predisposition to the disease, its asymptomatic nature, and the importance of early detection.
Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, is particularly common among people of African descent.
A consultant ophthalmologist in the FCT, Dr Lawal Olatunji clarified, “The minister’s statement highlights an important public health issue, but it is crucial to note that not every Nigerian will develop glaucoma.”
“However, individuals over 40, those with a family history of the disease, and people with conditions like diabetes and hypertension are at higher risk and should prioritise regular eye check-ups.”
Ifeoma Nwachukwu, a public health expert specialising in eye health, emphasised the silent nature of glaucoma.
“It progresses gradually without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why many Nigerians seek treatment only when vision loss is irreversible.
“The key message is that early detection through routine screenings can prevent blindness.”
While acknowledging the government’s efforts in launching the National Glaucoma Screening and Treatment Guidelines, Nwachukwu warned that access to proper eye care remained a significant challenge for many Nigerians.
“Glaucoma treatment is lifelong, and many Nigerians cannot afford the costs of medications or surgical interventions.
“The government needs to subsidise treatment and integrate eye screenings into routine health check-ups at primary healthcare centres.”
Eye care advocate Dr Amina Adebayo also called for increased investment in public awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas.
“Most Nigerians are unaware of glaucoma until it’s too late. We need to utilise radio, television, and social media to educate the public about eye health,” she said.
Adebayo proposed a multi-sectoral approach to tackling glaucoma, involving the government, private sector, and civil society organisations.
“We need to increase access to eye care services, expand the number of trained ophthalmologists, and boost research funding on glaucoma in Nigeria.
“Technology, such as telemedicine and mobile eye screening units, should be deployed to underserved areas to prevent further blindness,” she added.
NAN
