Optometrists Urge FG to Address Rising Glaucoma Cases in Nigeria
The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) has called on the Federal Government to employ optometrists across all 774 local government areas to curb the increasing prevalence of glaucoma in the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as part of activities for *World Glaucoma Week, themed “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World,” NOA President, Dr. Chimeziri Anderson, raised concerns over the high rate of undiagnosed glaucoma cases in Nigeria. He revealed that glaucoma remains the leading cause of irreversible blindness, with a prevalence rate between 4.6% and 5.02%.
Dr. Anderson emphasized the need for increased awareness and early detection, noting that “94% of glaucoma cases in Nigeria go undiagnosed,” until significant vision loss occurs. He urged the government to not only deploy optometrists nationwide but also provide importation waivers on essential pharmaceutical products, including lenses, to reduce the cost of eye care.
Additionally, the Chairman of the National Eye Health Committee, Dr. Afekhide Omoti, advised Nigerians—especially those above 40 years—to undergo regular eye check-ups, as “eight out of every 100 Nigerians in this age group have glaucoma, with most unaware of their condition.” He commended optometrists for leveraging the awareness week to educate the public on preventive eye care.
Health experts continue to advocate for stronger collaboration between optometrists and ophthalmologists to combat the growing threat of glaucoma in Nigeria.
