UNB :
A research survey has revealed that only 2 lakh people among 20 lakh people affected by glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, receive medical care, while the remaining 18 lakh patients are left untreated.
In terms of percentage, about 90% of those affected by glaucoma in the country are at risk of blindness due to lack of medical treatment.
Speakers at a discussion session said this on the occasion of World Glaucoma Day on Saturday.
At the event, Dr. Sheikh M.A. Mannaf, Managing Director of Harun Eye Foundation Limited and former president of the Glaucoma Society, stated that from 2021 to 2022, they conducted a survey in 65 upazila, serving among 17,000 people.
The survey revealed that approximately 3.2% of the population are affected by glaucoma.
He said, “Despite the alarming fact that 20 lakh people are affected by glaucoma, only 2lakh individuals are receiving treatment.
In the survey, we observed a slightly higher prevalence of glaucoma patients in urban areas compared to rural areas.
Both males and females can be affected by glaucoma. However, the rate of occurrence varies between the two genders.”
Dr. M.A. Mannaf explained that glaucoma has two broad categories: open-angle glaucoma, which progresses slowly, and angle-closure glaucoma, which advances rapidly.
