Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, January 17, 1995 TAG: 9501190068
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-6 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases associated with the eyes' inability to adequately drain away a fluid called aqueous humor. The buildup of fluid pressure on the eye's delicate optic nerve may eventually damage the nerve and cause permanent vision loss, according to information provided by Prevent Blindness Virginia.
Glaucoma strikes between 2 and 3 million Americans, age 40 and over, 51,000 in Virginia alone. At least half do not know they have it. People at risk include African-Americans; people with diabetes; people over age 40; those who are very nearsighted; those related to someone with the disease; or individuals who had eye surgery or an eye injury earlier in life and people who have taken steroid medications for a long period of time.
During the week, Prevent Blindness Virginia in corporation with Steve Jacobs, Becky Mann, Stephen Hudgins, Dan Drysdale will conduct free glaucoma screenings Thursday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at Virginia Tech Wellness Center, Blacksburg. 953-0136, or for more information, call (804) 355-0773.
VISION USA PROGRAM TO PROVIDE FREE EYE CARE
VISION USA, is a national program that provides free eye examinations to low-income, uninsured working Americans and their families. Sponsored locally by the Virginia Optometric Association, the Southwest Virginia Optometric Society and the American Optometric Association.
Dr. Steve Jacobs, a Blacksburg optometrist, has volunteered to provide free eye exams, and glasses for a nominal contribution, to eligible individuals approved by VISION USA.
If you think you qualify for benefits, call 1-800-766-4466 before the end of January. Those approved will be notified by mail and will receive instruction on how to schedule an appointment for an examination in March during National "Save Your Vision Week."
by CNB