Did you know that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide and the first among African Americans in the United States?
An estimated four million Americans have glaucoma but only half know it. That’s because glaucoma has no early symptoms or warning signs. Everyone is at risk, particularly African Americans, those over age 60, Hispanics in older age groups, those with a family history of glaucoma, and those who are nearsighted or have experienced eye trauma.
Glaucoma is not curable, and vision lost cannot be regained. With medication and/or surgery, it is possible to halt further loss of vision. Since open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition, it must be monitored for life. Diagnosis through a simple screening is the first step to preserving your vision.
Sentara Potomac Hospital is holding a free Glaucoma Screening on Thursday, August 18, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. (by appointment) in the Century Medical Building, 2280 Opitz Boulevard, Suite 100, Woodbridge, on the campus of Sentara Potomac Hospital. This screening is performed by Dr. Susan Majlessi, a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist.
This is a free screening but an appointment is required. For an appointment, call the Health Connection at 703-221-2500.
Please note: This screening is for adults who are currently NOT being treated for glaucoma. It is NOT a vision correction examination.
