For the second year, Bausch + Lomb Corporation and the national nonprofit Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) are partnering to launch the Faces of Glaucoma campaign in support of glaucoma awareness throughout the month of January.
First, let’s discuss glaucoma.
It is the second leading cause of blindness and the leading cause of irreversible blindness if left untreated, and there is still currently no cure for this chronic ocular disease.
Recent research published in JAMA Ophthalmology reported an estimated 2.56% of individuals aged 40+ have glaucoma—with Black individuals disproportionately affected.
Even further: An estimated 50% of all glaucoma cases across the globe—and in the United States—are reportedly going undetected. (Take note: With now over 4 million Americans diagnosed with glaucoma, that equates to over 2 million individuals).
And what exactly is GRF doing to combat this disease?
Established 47 years ago, the nonprofit is the oldest and most experienced institution in the United States with a mission dedicated exclusively toward curing glaucoma and restoring vision through:
- Collaborative research
- Its flagship program: Catalyst for a Cure
- Research grants
- Its innovation incubator: Shaffer Research Grants Program
Recent news: Last March, we covered GRF announcing the largest annual research budget in its history ($2.5 million) to support glaucoma and vision restoration research.
And, of course, the organization’s third focus lies in patient empowerment—which is where this campaign comes into play.
Talk about this campaign.
First launched in January 2024, this annual campaign seeks to once again highlight diverse patient stories and raise awareness of the disease all month long—including the importance of annual eye exams.
Available on the Faces of Glaucoma website are tips for glaucoma prevention, lifestyle tips for those already diagnosed, and educational resources for glaucoma patients with guidance on information such as:
- A comprehensive guide for glaucoma patients and their families
- Finding a local eye doctor
- Knowing what questions to ask their doctor
- Medication guide
- Financial assistance
- Low-vision resources
- Glaucoma support groups
And the intent behind this?
B+L’s Andrew Stewart, president, Global Pharmaceuticals and International Consumer, stated that the campaign aims to encourage people to “take an active role in understanding and managing their risk, starting with seeing an eye doctor.”
Sounds great! So how can I get involved?
Join this fundraising challenge to support GRF’s research into discovering a potential cure for glaucoma.
As an added bonus: B+L will match every dollar raised up to $20,000 (for an impressive fourth consecutive year).
And if you’re not up for that challenge, consider donating toward the cause by clicking here.