PESHAWAR: A “Glaucoma Awareness Walk” was held at Hayatabad Medical Complex to raise public awareness about glaucoma, a leading cause of preventable blindness, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment.
The initiative, marked by active participation from faculty, students and hospital staff, aimed to educate patients and attendants on preventive eye care and overall eye health.
Organised under the supervision of In-charge PICO Prof Dr Sanaullah Jan, the walk was attended by Chairman Board of Governors Prof Dr Noor ul Iman as chief guest, Dean Khyber Girls Medical College Prof Shahzad Akbar, Hospital Director Gulzar Ahmad, Medical Director Prof Dr Mushtaq Khattak, and other senior hospital officials.
During the walk, participants engaged directly with patients and attendants across the hospital premises, explaining glaucoma symptoms, risk factors and the vital need for early intervention to prevent irreversible vision loss. Prof Dr Noor ul Iman said, “Awareness and timely screening are the most effective tools to prevent vision loss from glaucoma, and community participation is key to achieving this goal.”
Medical experts said glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because the disease
usually develops gradually and many patients
remain unaware of it until significant and permanent vision damage has occurred. They stressed that regular eye examinations and early diagnosis are essential to controlling the disease and protecting eyesight.
In a symbolic gesture linking environmental and community health, the Chairman BOG, Dean KGMC, and other participants planted commemorative trees within the hospital grounds to promote a greener and healthier hospital environment.
