Over 90% Glaucoma cases undiagnosed in India, experts at AbbVie Conclave

Nearly 90 per cent of glaucoma cases in India remain undiagnosed, experts warned at a National Media Conclave hosted by global biopharmaceutical company AbbVie in New Delhi. The event, organised during World Glaucoma Week at the India Habitat Centre, highlighted the growing burden of the disease and the urgent need for early detection, regular screening and greater public awareness to prevent irreversible vision loss.

Experts at the conclave noted that glaucoma affects around 12 million people in India, making the country one of the most impacted globally. However, because the disease often develops silently without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, nearly 90% of patients remain unaware they have it until significant damage to vision has already occurred.

Opening the discussion, Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director and General Manager of AbbVie India, said glaucoma is widely known as the “silent thief of sight”.

“Many patients do not realise they have glaucoma until substantial vision loss has already occurred,” he said, adding that the company remains committed to strengthening awareness and encouraging regular eye examinations to help protect vision.

The conclave brought together leading glaucoma specialists including Dr Suneeta Dubey from Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Dr Harsh Kumar of Centre for Sight, and Dr Ramanjit Sihota from Shroff Eye Centre. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr Deven Tuli of Netram Eye Foundation.

To help participants better understand the real-life impact of glaucoma, the event began with a “Glaucoma Vision Experience” demonstration that simulated the visual limitations faced by patients. The activity allowed journalists and attendees to experience how glaucoma gradually narrows peripheral vision, reinforcing the importance of early screening.

Speaking at the conclave, Dr Dubey stressed that glaucoma often progresses without obvious warning signs. “Regular eye examinations, particularly after the age of 40, are crucial for early detection and preserving vision,” she said.

Dr Kumar emphasised that routine eye check-ups—including optic nerve evaluation and measurement of intraocular pressure—can help detect glaucoma early. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, he noted, the progression of the disease can often be slowed significantly.

Dr Sihota highlighted the importance of patient awareness and long-term care, noting that glaucoma requires lifelong monitoring and strict adherence to treatment.

Moderating the discussion, Dr Tuli said tackling glaucoma requires coordinated efforts from clinicians, policymakers and the public. Strengthening awareness and improving access to screening and treatment services, he added, will be key to reducing glaucoma-related blindness in India.

Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. Because the condition progresses slowly and without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, many people remain unaware they have the disease until vision loss occurs. However, experts say that regular eye examinations, early diagnosis and timely treatment can help slow its progression and preserve vision.