More than 3 million Americans suffer from glaucoma. It’s the leading cause of preventable blindness and disproportionately affects African-Americans and Asians more than any other population group.
For that reason, Shane Havens, M.D., assistant professor in the department of ophthalmology and visual sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is holding a glaucoma screening from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 24, at Claire Memorial United Methodist Church, 5544 Ames Ave.
Dr. Havens said he hopes to raise awareness about this disease that is easily treated yet a thief of sight if left untreated.
"The symptoms are asymptomatic and many people don’t realize they have glaucoma until their vision is affected. We want people to know there is treatment, and early screening can help save their sight," he said.
Vision loss is caused by damage to the optic nerve, Dr. Havens said. There are two main types of glaucoma – primary open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma – both of which are marked by an increase in intraocular pressure inside the eye.
While there is no cure for glaucoma, there is treatment and an early comprehensive eye exam can help determine the best method, he said.
The screening at Claire Memorial will involve a pressure check of the eyes, as well as screening for other eye disease, such as diabetic retinopathy, Dr. Havens said. If anyone is found to have a questionable screening, they will refer them to specialists at the UNMC Truhlsen Eye Institute.
Most treatment for glaucoma involves eye drops, but in some cases outpatient laser surgery also is an option.
Regardless, Dr. Havens said, it is important for people in high risk groups, including people over 60, family members of those already diagnosed, those who have diabetes, people who are severely nearsighted, as well as African-Americans and Asians to get regular eye exams.
"Fifty percent of people who have glaucoma are unaware that they have it," he said. "Without detection and appropriate treatment they risk permanent vision loss. For this reason regular eye exams are vital and this screening provides the opportunity for people without access to get one and be referred for further care if needed."
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