Sight Saver Run to raise awareness on glaucoma

In observance of World Glaucoma Week from March 9 – 15, Narayana Nethralaya Eye Hospital is set to organise a Sight Saver Run on March 9 at Jarakabande Reserve Forest, Ramagondanahalli, to raise awareness about glaucoma.

Ahead of the event, at a press meet on Thursday, Naren Shetty, Vice-Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya spoke about the silent nature of glaucoma, explaining that it occurs without pain, leading many patients to remain unaware of it. “By the time most patients seek medical attention, it is already too late,” he said, urging the necessity of regular eye check-ups for early diagnosis and control of the disease.

Sujani Shroff, Glaucoma Consultant, remarked that glaucoma has no cure and, in its final stages, leads to complete and irreversible blindness. She re-emphasised that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness globally, affecting 80 million people, with 11 million cases in India alone. “While cataract and PMD are widely known to people, glaucoma remains unknown, and it will only increase now, as children use mobile phones excessively. She advised following well-balanced diets, exercise and practicing yoga.

The race will offer two categories – a 5K and a 10K run. The event will be flagged off by Arjun Devaiah, an international athlete and South Asian Games champion, and 500 participants have already registered while spot registrations will be open on the day of the run.