By Fatou Bojang
Dr. Winston Ceesay brought attention to the prevalence of glaucoma, which stands as a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
On Thursday, the National Eye Health Program (NEHP) of the Ministry of Health conducted a press briefing at the Sheikh Zayed Regional Eye Health Care Center (SZRECC) in Kanifing to raise awareness about glaucoma during World Glaucoma Week, observed annually from March 9 to March 15. This year’s theme, “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World,” highlights the global initiative to address blindness caused by glaucoma and underscores the significance of regular eye examinations for early detection.
Dr. Ceesay, CEO and Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist at SZRECC reported that in 2024, the center diagnosed 1,004 new cases of glaucoma, most of whom received appropriate treatment. However, challenges remain regarding timely diagnosis and treatment adherence, mainly due to the asymptomatic nature of the disease and the high cost of necessary medications. “In 2020, an estimated 76 million people were affected, with projections suggesting this figure could increase to 95.5 million by 2030. Tragically, nearly half of those living with glaucoma are unaware of their condition, significantly heightening the risk of vision loss,” he remarked.
Dr. Ceesay emphasized critical risk factors for glaucoma, including age, ethnicity, and family history, noting that individuals of African descent are particularly vulnerable. He disclosed that current statistics indicate that people of African descent are five times more likely to develop glaucoma and six times more likely to experience blindness as a result of the disease. Alarmingly, 90% of individuals of African descent remain unaware of their diagnosis, often attributing vision problems to aging instead of seeking medical attention.
Dr. Ceesay urged the public to take proactive measures in managing their eye health, stating, “Glaucoma blindness is preventable,” while highlighting the importance of community awareness and education.
Bakary Dibbah, Deputy Programme Manager of the NEHP, outlined the program’s strategic goals and achievements since its inception in 1986. He emphasized the effort to reduce the prevalence of blindness by providing accessible and comprehensive eye care services. “The NEHP aims to deliver essential eye health services throughout The Gambia, focusing on training health personnel and establishing secondary eye units in various regions,” he remarked.
Despite progress, Dibbah noted that significant gaps remain, particularly in rural areas with limited access to quality eye care. He urged individuals, especially those with a family history of glaucoma, to seek screenings at secondary eye units.
The NEHP’s collaborative efforts with international partners such as Sightsavers International and OneSight have significantly enhanced eye care services and increased awareness about preventable blindness. As World Glaucoma Week unfolds, the NEHP encourages all Gambians to prioritize regular eye examinations and educate themselves about glaucoma, often called the “silent thief of sight.”
This year’s campaign aims to raise awareness about glaucoma and cultivate a culture of routine eye checks in The Gambia, striving for a future in which glaucoma-related blindness is minimized.
