WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren today announced that his office will be joining with the Congressional Glaucoma Caucus to hold free glaucoma screenings at the Claremore Senior Citizens Center from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2008.
“Studies have shown that early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it causes major vision loss, is the best way to control the disease,” said Boren.
The screenings will take place at the Claremore Senior Citizens Center Health Fair, where a variety of free specialty health screenings and important health information will be available. Boren has arranged to have one of the Congressional Glaucoma Caucus’ mobile eye care units parked at the Center where eye care professionals and trained staff will perform screenings for attendees at no cost.
“Regular glaucoma screenings are very important because the debilitating effects of the disease are irreversible. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss, and if not treated soon enough, total blindness. If treated immediately, individuals diagnosed with glaucoma have an opportunity to significantly reduce the damage the disease can cause to their eyesight,” Boren said.
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve which connects the retina to the brain. In early stages, a person afflicted with glaucoma has normal vision and does not suffer pain with the onset of the disease. However, as glaucoma progresses, a person afflicted with the disease gradually loses his or her peripheral vision. Those that suffer from glaucoma can often see objects in front clearly, but objects to the side may be missed.
Anyone can develop glaucoma. However, everyone over the age of 60 is considered high risk. Other high risk groups include African Americans and Hispanics over age 40 and anyone with glaucoma in their family’s medical history.
“Anyone who is considered high-risk for glaucoma is highly encouraged to attend these screenings. Even individuals who are not in the high-risk category should take advantage of the free screening as a preventative measure to protect their eyesight,” said Boren.
What: Free Glaucoma Screenings
Where: Claremore Senior Citizens Center 116 N. Missouri
When: Thursday, October 23rd, 2008 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Who: All are welcome; at risk populations are encouraged
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