With glaucoma silently stealing the sight of millions, global biopharma major AbbVie recently convened leading eye specialists and health experts at the National Media Conclave for Glaucoma Awareness #DefeatGlaucoma in the Indian capital to push for urgent action on early detection and treatment.
Held at India Habitat Centre during World Glaucoma Week, the conclave highlighted the growing threat of glaucoma—one of the world’s leading causes of irreversible blindness—and the critical need for regular eye screening and timely management.
The scale of the challenge in India is stark. Nearly 12 million people are estimated to be living with glaucoma, making the country one of the worst affected globally. Experts warn that almost 90% of cases remain undiagnosed, largely because the disease progresses silently in its early stages, often without noticeable symptoms.
Health specialists at the event cautioned that delayed diagnosis can lead to permanent vision loss, stressing the need for stronger public awareness, routine eye examinations and improved access to screening and treatment.
Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director and General Manager, AbbVie India, said:
“Glaucoma is often called the 'silent thief of sight” because many patients remain unaware of the disease until significant vision loss has already occurred. At AbbVie, leveraging over 75 years of global eyecare expertise, we are deeply committed to advancing eye care and improving patient outcomes.
"Through initiatives like this Conclave, we aim not only to strengthen awareness around early detection but also to encourage regular eye examinations. We strive to ensure that more people can protect their vision, safeguard their quality of life, and join us in the mission to #DefeatGlaucoma”
The conclave brought together prominent glaucoma specialists including Suneeta Dubey of Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Harsh Kumar of Centre for Sight, and Ramanjit Sihota of Shroff Eye Centre. The session was moderated by Deven Tuli of Netram Eye Foundation.
To drive home the real-world impact of the disease, attendees first experienced a Glaucoma Vision Experience demonstration, which simulated how the condition gradually erodes peripheral vision. The exercise offered journalists and participants a rare first-hand perspective on how glaucoma patients experience shrinking visual fields as the disease progresses.
Speaking at the conclave, Suneeta Dubey highlighted the importance of timely diagnosis, stating, “Glaucoma often develops gradually and without noticeable symptoms, which is why many patients remain undiagnosed until irreversible damage has occurred. Regular eye examinations, especially after the age of 40, are essential for early detection and preserving vision.”
Harsh Kumar emphasised the need for improved awareness and screening practices.
“Routine eye check-ups that include optic nerve evaluation and intraocular pressure measurement can help detect glaucoma early. With early diagnosis and appropriate management, the progression of the disease can often be slowed significantly.”
Ramanjit Sihota highlighted the importance of patient education and long-term care.
“Glaucoma management requires lifelong monitoring and adherence to treatment. Increasing public awareness about the disease and encouraging timely consultations with eye specialists can help prevent irreversible vision loss.”
Moderating the discussion, Deven Tuli underscored the importance of collective action. "Addressing glaucoma requires a collective approach involving clinicians, policymakers, and the public. Strengthening awareness and improving access to screening and treatment services will be critical in reducing glaucoma-related blindness in India.”
Glaucoma is a chronic eye condition that damages the optic nerve, often linked to increased pressure inside the eye. Because the disease advances gradually and silently, many patients only realise something is wrong after significant vision loss has already occurred.
