Highland Ophthalmology Associates to Offer Free Glaucoma Screenings
Newburgh, New York – January 2, 2007 – In honor of Glaucoma Awareness Month, Highland Ophthalmology Associates, in Newburgh, NY, will be offering free Glaucoma Screenings on Saturday, January 13, 2007. Highland Ophthalmology Associates encourages anyone at risk to please participate in their Glaucoma Awareness Program.
It is estimated that over 3 million Americans have glaucoma and half are at risk for going blind because they remain undiagnosed. "Glaucoma is a complex disease, because there are no symptoms in the early stages. By the time vision loss is noted by the patient, the disease process is quite advanced. If detected early enough, vision loss from glaucoma can be treated and prevented,” said Dr. Tim Huynh an Eye M.D. and a fellowship trained glaucoma specialist at Highland Ophthalmology. "As part of Glaucoma Awareness Month in January, we are urging people who might be at risk to come to our office for a free Glaucoma Screening."
“Who is at risk? African-Americans have a higher incidence of glaucoma, and it often appears at a younger age than in other racial groups. Anyone with a close relative - father, mother or sibling - with glaucoma is also at risk. Older people, those with diabetes and people who have had a serious eye injury are considered at risk as well" says Dr. Huynh. “Anyone who falls into these groups should call us or their Eye M.D. to have their eyes examined. Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can usually preserve vision.”
Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain, is damaged. It can be associated with elevated pressure within the eye and often leads to vision loss. It begins with the loss of peripheral vision and then advances to a reduction in central vision. Glaucoma can potentially lead to blindness.
On Saturday January 13, 2007, Highland Ophthalmology will be hosting complimentary glaucoma screenings at their office between the hours of 9:00 AM and 12:30 PM. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments can be scheduled to help minimize wait time by calling (845) 562-0138.