Lagos Residents Advised to Undergo Routine Tests for Glaucoma

Lagos Residents Advised to Undergo Routine Tests for Glaucoma
Officials Advocate Early Detection to Reduce Glaucoma-Related Blindness
Experts Warn Glaucoma Is a ‘Silent Thief of Sight’

The Lagos State Ministry of Health has urged residents to prioritise early screening for Glaucoma in order to prevent avoidable blindness.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the call was made during a “Walk for Sight” held at the State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, as part of activities marking World Glaucoma Week 2026.

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The campaign was organised to raise awareness about the dangers of glaucoma and the importance of routine eye examinations.

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dayo Lajide, described glaucoma as a “silent killer of sight” because it often develops without obvious symptoms until permanent damage has occurred.

She noted that while glaucoma does not lead to death, the loss of vision associated with the disease can significantly affect an individual’s psychological wellbeing and productivity.

Lajide therefore encouraged residents, especially those with a family history of glaucoma or blindness, to adopt regular eye examinations. She added that screening and treatment services are available at general hospitals and selected primary health centres across the state.

Also speaking, Chairperson of the Nigerian Optometric Association, Lagos State chapter, Gloria Okoekhian-Ogulu, warned that glaucoma remains a “silent thief of sight” because it develops gradually and often goes unnoticed in its early stages.

According to her, people of African descent are genetically more predisposed to the condition, making public awareness and routine eye checks particularly important.

She explained that although glaucoma may not always be preventable, blindness resulting from the disease can largely be avoided through early detection, proper treatment and adherence to medical advice.

Lagos Residents Advised to Undergo Routine Tests for Glaucoma

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Olayinka Ojo, commended the Ministry of Health for organising the campaign and encouraged public servants to take advantage of available screening programmes.

Meanwhile, the Director of Medical Administration, Training and Programmes at the ministry, Mazeedat Erinosho, noted that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness globally after cataract.

She added that the risk of developing the condition increases significantly after the age of 40 and stressed the need for stronger health-seeking behaviour, particularly routine eye examinations.

Erinosho disclosed that the ministry would also conduct screening and awareness outreach at the Sunday Market in Ogba Market to bring eye care services closer to grassroots communities.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding blindness prevention programmes and improving access to early diagnosis and treatment for residents.