ENTOD Eye Health Foundation launches Glaucoma Awareness

Srinagar, Mar 25: Supporting the ‘World Glaucoma Week’, ENTOD Eye Health
Foundation has launched a glaucoma awareness campaign (#GetTestedForGlaucoma) from 12 th –20th March in Kashmir. The campaign objective is to reach 10 million individuals throughout the country, with a particular focus on those aged 40 and above, as well as the younger generation.
The initiative seeks to disseminate knowledge about glaucoma and urge people to have their eyes examined at frequent intervals so they can evaluate their risk factors, as well as familiarize themselves with the glaucoma treatment alternatives that are available at every stage of the disease. ENTOD Pharmaceuticals will support ENTOD Eye Health Foundation in its effort to raise awareness of glaucoma and prevent its progression.
“Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is more prevalent in individuals aged 50-60 than those under 60. Unfortunately, due to a lack of awareness and recognition of its symptoms, this eye condition continues to proliferate. In Kashmir, glaucoma is the primary cause of irreversible blindness, accounting for half of all blindness cases in the region.
Given the gravity of the situation, it is essential to educate the public on the prevalence of glaucoma in our country and promote eye health. A campaign aimed at increasing awareness about glaucoma can provide individuals with vital information about its symptoms, preventative measures and available treatment options.” said Dr. Tejinder Paul Singh, HOD, JLNM Hospital, Srinagar.
“Glaucoma, also known as the ‘sneak thief of sight’, can cause severe issues and even permanent vision loss due to lack of awareness. In India, nearly 11.2 million people above 40 years of age are affected with glaucoma. Our objective in launching a glaucoma awareness campaign is to increase awareness about this condition through various engaging activities. In order to prevent glaucoma blindness, several issues must be addressed. Glaucoma often presents no warning signs until it reaches an advanced stage, but the damage it causes to vision is ongoing and irreversible.
Fortunately, treatment can stop the damage for many patients. Therefore, early diagnosis is crucial for preserving vision and preventing blindness. The glaucoma awareness campaign aims to emphasize the importance of regular, simple eye exams, which can lead to early detection and preservation of sight. We will also be engaging with celebrities and influencers on social media to promote the importance of checking one’s vision to fight glaucoma” said Mr Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO of ENTOD Pharmaceuticals.
The campaign is being conducted across Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Punjab, Bihar and Jharkhand & Kashmir would not only disseminate information and raise awareness on glaucoma but screen people and conduct awareness talks with specialists to support glaucoma prevention strategies.
Free eye checkup camps , walkathons for Glaucoma Awareness, CME Workshops, Pre OPD Camps are being organized in various states/cities.