GLAUCOMA is considered to be the third largest cause of blindness worldwide after cataract and trachoma, and is responsible for an estimated 5.2 million cases. Estimates prepared by WHO put the total number of suspect cases of glaucoma at around 105 million. More than 80% of the blind and suspect cases live in the developing world.

A major difficulty with glaucoma, and the irreversible blindness that it can lead to, is the lack of a uniform case definition. The name commonly refers not to a single disease, but to a group of diseases that have certain common features, including, in particular, cupping and atrophy of the optic nerve head, characteristic visual field loss and often, but not invariably, increased intra ocular pressure (IOP).

Different populations tend to suffer from different types of glaucoma. But, in general, persons of African heritage and Asians are more inclined to develop glaucoma and to lose their sight than Caucasians.

Early signs of glaucoma are difficult to notice for an individual, except for cases in which pain and blurred vision develop as a result of a sudden increase of intra ocular pressure. Ideally, therefore, persons over 40 years of age should have regular eye examinations, particularly those with a family history of glaucoma.

Glaucoma as such cannot be prevented, but visual loss can be avoided if the disease is detected and treated at an early stage. Awareness-raising and education aimed at persons at particular risk facilitate the early detection and treatment of glaucoma.