Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Senior Special Assistant to Governor Alex Otti on Special Duties, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi, has expressed deep concern over the rising cases of glaucoma among Abia residents.
The Governor’s Senior Aide who is also an eye expert overseeing the Eye section of Abia Diagnostic Centre, spoke after monitoring the on-going free eye screening in designated centres in the state as part of activities for this year’s World Glaucoma Week.
She revealed that one out of every four patients coming for eye treatment at the Abia Diagnostic Centre, had glaucoma.
Decrying the prevalence of glaucoma, Dr Emeka-Obasi disclosed that 1400 out of about 5,400 eye patients at the centre screened between October 2023 and February 2024, had glaucoma.
Describing glaucoma as silent thief of sight, the SSA regretted that about 50% of glaucoma patients “are not even aware that they have it.”
According to her, by the time it starts presenting symptoms, it is usually at the late stage which is usually irreversible.
The Eye specialist, however, said glaucoma could be managed if detected early, likening it to hypertension which is controllable if the patient is under drug but deadly if ignored.
She urged residents from 40 years to regularly go for test at least twice a year.
The SSA regretted that some adults some of whom were the bread winners of their families, had been incapacitated by glaucoma.
“Glaucoma attacks the optic nerves, and once it damages it, it becomes irreversible.
“It’s the silent thief of sight. That’s why we encourage people to come for eye check at least every six months.
“If it’s detected early, just like high blood pressure, it can be managed for life, and at a cheaper cost. But if it is detected at late stage which is usually the case here, the drugs cost about N22,500 per month in government hospitals, and it is irreversible.”
She called for increase awareness about glaucoma, hinting that the state government would embark on intensive sensitisation of communities, schools and worship centres across the state to reduce its prevalence.
The SSA commended Gov. Alex Otti for providing free drugs for the exercise.
Dr Obasi specifically thanked the Governor for upgrading facilities at the Diagnostic Centre Umuahia, describing the equipment at the hospital as the best in the South-East.
During a visit earlier at Isuochi screening centre, Dr Emeka-Obasi assured the crowd of patients that that State Government would help make their treatments affordable.
Responding, the Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area, Mr Ndubuisi Ike, commended the Governor for his efforts towards improving health care delivery in the state.
The exercise which started on March 10 is to end on March 16.
