The Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau has raised concern over the increasing number of glaucoma cases in the state, revealing that 6,381 confirmed cases have been recorded within the past 28 months.
The bureau also warned residents against seeking treatment from unqualified eye practitioners and cautioned against the use of harmful substances such as unapproved eye drops and urine as remedies for eye-related ailments.
Speaking during the 2026 World Glaucoma Week symposium held in Umuahia on Thursday, the administrator of the bureau, Betty Emeka‑Obasi, said the current figure could increase as more residents undergo diagnosis and screening.
She described glaucoma as a serious and irreversible eye condition that can gradually damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent blindness if not detected early. According to her, the disease cannot be reversed once significant damage occurs, but early diagnosis and consistent eye examinations can help slow its progression.
Emeka-Obasi expressed concern that a significant number of people in their active and productive years have already been affected by the disease in the state and across Nigeria. She noted that the bureau has intensified public awareness campaigns to encourage early eye checks and reduce preventable cases of blindness.
She also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to support the government’s efforts to eliminate quack eye doctors and discourage unsafe treatment practices that could worsen eye conditions.
Providing further statistics, Emeka-Obasi disclosed that about 2,000 individuals had successfully undergone eye surgeries after early detection of their conditions, helping restore their vision. In addition, the bureau conducted approximately 13,500 free eye screening tests across different parts of the state.
Also speaking at the event, Enoch Uche reaffirmed that the state government’s ban on unqualified eye doctors and unauthorized free medical outreaches remains in effect.
He stressed that the policy is aimed at protecting residents from unregulated medical practices and ensuring that eye care services in the state are provided only by certified professionals.
