Eye‑care specialists are urging Nigerians—especially those with a family history of glaucoma—to undergo regular eye examinations to prevent sudden, irreversible blindness from the condition. While the exact cause of glaucoma remains unknown, individuals with affected relatives and those living with non‑communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus are at higher risk and should prioritize periodic eye checks.
In an interview with our correspondent, Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr. Sewuese Bitto of the Federal Medical Centre Abuja and Dr. Osamudiamen Cyril Obasuyi, an ophthalmologist at the Cataract and Glaucoma Services Unit of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, emphasized the need for greater public understanding of glaucoma to avert blindness. Dr. Bitto explained that glaucoma exerts excessive pressure on the eyes and identified several risk factors. “There is no single cause of glaucoma, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it,” she said. “Being Black, being over 40 years of age, and having elevated intra‑ocular pressure all raise the risk. Moreover, having a first‑degree relative with glaucoma significantly heightens one’s chances.”
Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and proper management of glaucoma, which can prevent the permanent vision loss the disease often causes. Dr. Bitto noted that early checks can also reveal a thin cornea—a condition more common among Black individuals—that may mask higher actual eye pressure, further increasing glaucoma risk. She added that hypertension and diabetes mellitus are additional risk factors, although glaucoma is more prevalent in adults than in children.
Glaucoma does occur in children, though less frequently. Congenital glaucoma is present at birth, infantile glaucoma appears between ages one and three, and juvenile glaucoma affects children over three up to adults under 40. While congenital cases typically arise sporadically without other eye diseases, risk factors include a positive family history and consanguinity. Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma diagnosed at any age.
The key takeaway, according to Dr. Bitto, is that Nigerians should engage in periodic eye checks—ideally once a year—because glaucoma often remains symptom‑free until it has already caused irreversible vision loss.
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