Eye-opening survey finds Canadians lack critical knowledge about glaucoma
World Glaucoma Day
On the eve of World Glaucoma Day, results from a recent CNIB survey suggest many Canadians lack critical knowledge about this serious eye condition and are not taking the necessary steps to detect it early.
The survey found that Canadians over the age of 40 hold significant misconceptions about glaucoma, the second-leading cause of vision loss among seniors in Canada. Seventy per cent of respondents incorrectly believed that glaucoma has associated symptoms, with a third associating the disease with pain or a change in how their eyes feel. In fact, glaucoma - commonly known as the "silent thief" - is usually painless and progresses without noticeable symptoms. This progression can lead to serious vision loss and total blindness. "It's possible to have glaucoma and not even know it," says Dr. Keith Gordon, Vice President of Research, CNIB. "In fact, only half of the 250,000 Canadians living with glaucoma are aware they have this serious disease." The survey also found that close to a third (28 per cent) of respondents have not had their eyes examined in the past two years, despite the fact that an overwhelming majority (88 per cent) name sight as the most important of their five senses. Unfortunately, many Canadians do not learn they have glaucoma until it's too late. Although 60 per cent of respondents believe glaucoma is curable, the reality is that the disease cannot be cured and, if not treated, can lead to progressive and permanent vision loss. However, when detected early, treatment options are available to control the disease and prevent it from progressing. "Regular eye examinations by an eye doctor are the best way to maintain vision health and prevent glaucoma from sneaking up on you," says Dr. Yvonne Buys, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Toronto and president of the Canadian Glaucoma Society.