World Glaucoma Week is designed to spread awareness and understanding about the importance of early detection of glaucoma, the world’s second leading cause of blindness. In 2023, the annual observation will take place from March 5 to 11, 2023.

In 2022, more than 500 activities from around the world were submitted on the World Glaucoma Week website World Map.

Established by the World Glaucoma Association and World Glaucoma Patient Association, World Glaucoma Week is a unique initiative to help those with an interest in improved eye health to understand the devastating effects of a condition that could affect as many as 111 million people worldwide by 2040.

Experts estimate that half of the people with glaucoma are unaware of their condition, and could be slowly losing their sight because their glaucoma has not been diagnosed or treated.

“Glaucoma Research Foundation has been ‘spreading the word’ about the looming epidemic of glaucoma brought on by the world’s aging population,” said Thomas M. Brunner, GRF President and CEO. “World Glaucoma Week is an opportunity for everyone to help spread the word by talking about glaucoma — either your own diagnosis or family history, or simply sharing information and encouraging eye examinations. In this way we can all help to prevent irreversible vision loss from this ‘silent thief of sight’.”

A Message from Neeru Gupta, MD, PhD, MBA, President of the World Glaucoma Association

World Glaucoma Week is a unique initiative that puts a spotlight on glaucoma as the leading cause of preventable irreversible blindness worldwide. The prompt diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma can prevent needless vision impairment, however, so many are unaware they have the disease or may not have access to much-needed care.

As the numbers are expected to increase exponentially, it is a growing public health concern that needs more attention and effective eye health systems. The active coming together of the international community with colleagues and key stakeholders through events to stimulate awareness and dialogue is a show of our shared commitment to improving glaucoma care for patients around the world.