From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Minster of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has challenged Nigerians to take more care of their sights to avoid challenges that could lead to avoidable blindness.
The Minister stated this at an event to commemorate 2025 World Glaucoma Week in Abuja, on Monday, noting that most Nigerians are at higher risk of glaucoma which could result in blindness if not presented and treated early.
The Minister who was represented by Dr. Michael Akpan, Director Port Health Division, Federal Ministry of Health &Social Welfare, further noted this year’s theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma Free World; See the Future Clearly” is an opportunity for collaborative effort to raise more awareness about the challenge.
He explained that glaucoma is an eye condition in which the optic nerve is progressively and irreversibly damaged resulting in loss of peripheral vision in the beginning, and blindness at advanced stages.
“It is also described as the ‘silent thief of sight’ as it develops slowly, and vision can be greatly impaired before any signs or symptoms are apparent. It is the second commonest cause of blindness and leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and in Nigeria. However, it is manageable with early detection.
He noted that glaucoma is reported to affect an estimated 60.5 million people worldwide, about 87 per cent of which are living in developing countries, adding that the Nigerian blindness and visual impairment survey 2005-2007 reported that over 4.2 per cent of the Nigerian population were blind; 16.7 per cent was due to glaucoma.
He said: “The risk factors associated with glaucoma include African ancestry which means virtually all Nigerians are at risk. But studies are reporting an earlier onset of the disease and a more severe course in persons of African descent.
“Additional risk factors include family history of glaucoma, elevated eye pressure, medical conditions that predisposes a person to glaucoma such as diabetes and hypertension, refractive errors, eye injuries, thin corneas and prolonged use of corticosteroid eye drops.”
He, however, stated that the Ministry is keenly aware of the data, the specific factors that put Nigerians at risk of vision loss amongst others, and has worked assiduously over the years by supporting and implementing targeted screening, public awareness programs, advocacy, improving patient journey through the health system, leverage technology and setting research priorities to improve patient outcomes.
“This week, we aim to educate the public about glaucoma, the importance of regular eye check-ups, offer screening and spectacles where required,” he stated.
Dr. Oteri Okolo, National Coordinator, National Eye Health Programme, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, in her remarks, urged Nigerians take necessary action by scheduling a routine comprehensive eye examination, encouraging loved ones to do the same, and spreading the word about the importance of early detection.
“Together, we can make a difference and help prevent vision loss caused by glaucoma. Many of us have close family or friends who were diagnosed with glaucoma at a late stage. The impact on their vision and life is often significant, and a stark reminder of how crucial early detection is. This experience should fuel our passion for raising awareness about this condition and advocating for regular eye check-ups.”
Representatives of Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Sightsavers, OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation (OSELF), and Chritoffel Blinden Mission (CBM), also pledged to provide support to the FMoH to reduce the burden of vision loss in Nigeria.
