Routine eye checks compulsory for those over 50

By Sheain Fernandopulle  
The Health Ministry urged individuals aged 50 and above to undergo regular eye checks to keep glaucoma at bay. 
This was said by Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Secretary of the Ministry of Health during a special press conference held at the National Eye Hospital last morning.   
Stressing the significance of early detection, Dr. Mahipala highlighted that it is imperative, particularly for those with a family history of glaucoma, to prioritize eye health by undergoing comprehensive eye assessments.   

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging a nerve in the back of your eye called the optic nerve.  
Highlighting concerning statistics on glaucoma prevalence, Health Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala revealed that Sri Lanka’s rate stands at almost 5%, while the global average is 3.54%.   
Dr. Mahipala attributed this higher prevalence to the increasing elderly population in Sri Lanka, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to address the growing burden of eye-related conditions in the country.