Glaucoma campaign to focus on familial link

Download free resources to support this year’s awareness campaign

Ahead of Glaucoma Awareness Week 2021, which runs from 28 June to 4 July, the charity Glaucoma UK is focusing on the fact that glaucoma can be hereditary.

According to the charity, more than 700,000 people in the UK are living with glaucoma, and their close blood relatives are four times more likely to develop the disease.

In addition, the charity estimates that between 2015 and 2035, the number of people living with glaucoma in the UK will increase by 44 per cent.

During Glaucoma Awareness Week, Glaucoma UK aims to encourage families to openly talk about glaucoma and urge relatives to have regular eye examinations every two years.

The charity also aims to highlight the help that they can offer families and friends to support a loved one with the disease.

Twenty-seven-year-old Jessica Sydenham from Cardiff was born with congenital glaucoma, a common form of childhood glaucoma. She says: “My family and friends are really supportive and I’m able to talk to them about any issues I may be having.

“It’s important for people to be aware of what you’re experiencing, especially as the disease can be invisible. If you don’t tell them, they won’t understand. Having that support bubble around you is so important.”

Jessica is aware that glaucoma can be hereditary. “My partner and I often talk about the chances of our future children inheriting glaucoma,” she explains. “I remain optimistic that if my child does have the disease, then it won’t be a problem at all. Glaucoma has never stopped me from having a normal life, and I will be there as a pillar to lean on when our child needs my support.”

Karen Osborn, chief executive of Glaucoma UK, commented: “This year we’re raising awareness of the family link with glaucoma. We’re also starting a conversation about how we can support loved ones who are caring for someone with the disease.

“Glaucoma UK runs regular digital glaucoma support groups, which are free to attend and cover a large range of topics on the disease. We also have a helpline, website and free leaflets for anyone needing advice about glaucoma, as well as an online community, which provides a welcome space to discuss common issues and share coping strategies.”

Glaucoma UK is encouraging healthcare professionals to get involved by displaying posters for the campaign and sharing social media posts, to spread the word and show their support for patients.

All resources are available to download on the charity’s website at www.glaucoma.uk