LE GLAUCOME: voleur silencieux de la vue

In Cameroon, and particularly in a vibrant city like Douala, where daily life is often dictated by work, traffic jams, and numerous responsibilities, medical consultations are frequently postponed. Yet, during this time, many people are living with glaucoma without knowing it. Glaucoma is often called "the silent thief of sight." Unlike other diseases, it generally causes neither pain nor visible signs at first. The disease gradually attacks the optic nerve and progressively reduces the field of vision. A person can continue to work, get around, and carry out their daily activities for several years without realizing that their vision is gradually narrowing. Unfortunately, by the time the first signs become evident, a large part of the vision is already lost… and this loss is irreversible. In Africa, specialists observe that glaucoma appears earlier and often progresses more rapidly than in other parts of the world. In Cameroon, several factors exacerbate the situation: lack of information, the habit of only going to the hospital when the pain becomes unbearable, and sometimes limited access to specialized examinations. Yet, a simple check of intraocular pressure and optic nerve function can detect the disease early and slow its progression with appropriate treatment. To better understand this condition and raise awareness, the program INCLUSIV welcomes Dr. Christian TCHANDJI, an ophthalmologist, who will shed light on the causes of glaucoma, screening methods, and treatment options. Joining him are two members of the association ICI ET LÀ-BAS, Franceline DJOMO and Ebeneser KUIMO, who are experiencing progressive vision loss due to glaucoma. They will share their experiences and journeys in the face of this often misunderstood reality. Beyond advocacy, the association ICI ET LÀ-BAS (HERE AND THERE) provides a welcoming, supportive, and attentive environment for people who are already blind or experiencing vision loss. Through guidance, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation activities, it helps these individuals regain their self-confidence and rebuild active lives. This program is also a call for collective responsibility. In our families in Douala, as elsewhere in Cameroon, how many parents, uncles, or neighbors over 40 have never had their eyes checked? How many still believe that the gradual decline in vision is simply due to age? Yet, early detection can save sight. During this World Glaucoma Week, let's educate ourselves, encourage our loved ones to get checked, and support those already affected. Because protecting sight also means preserving the independence and future of thousands of Cameroonians. Together, let's join forces to move towards a world without glaucoma.