The Gauteng Department of Health has intensified efforts to protect residents from vision loss as the province joins the global community in observing World Glaucoma Week from 8–14 March 2026 under the theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World.”
Glaucoma, often called the “silent thief of sight,” is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness and can develop without early symptoms, making regular eye examinations essential for early detection.
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko urged residents, especially people over 40 and those with chronic conditions, to prioritise regular eye tests to protect their eyesight.
The department has also expanded access to spectacles across the province, exceeding its targets in the 2025/26 financial year by issuing 102% of the planned spectacles for adults and 75% for children.
Health officials say awareness campaigns and regular eye examinations remain the most effective ways to detect glaucoma early and prevent avoidable blindness in Gauteng communities.
