Roche Pharmaceuticals Calls for Increased Eye Testing as World Retina Week Approaches
● Although 80% of global vision loss is preventable or treatable, millions remain at risk due to a lack of accessible eye care and education about their risks. Early diagnosis is critical, especially for high-risk groups like people with diabetes and those over 60.
● Retinal diseases like nAMD, DME, and RVO affect millions globally, with visual impairment impacting independence, mental health, and social well-being.
● World Retina Week (23-29 September) highlights the importance of voluntary eye testing to detect early-stage eye diseases before they progress to vision loss.
Johannesburg, 30 September 2024 — Millions worldwide suffer from vision loss due to conditions such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular oedema (DME), even though approximately 80% of global vision loss is preventable or treatable. As we observe World Retina Week (23–29 September), Roche Pharmaceuticals, a leading provider of vision-related therapies, urges people to prioritise voluntary eye examinations, even in the absence of symptoms. ¹ ²
In Africa, retinal disease is an escalating public health challenge. An estimated 26.3 million individuals across the African Region experience some form of visual impairment. Of these, 20.4 million suffer from low vision, and 5.9 million are believed to be blind. ³
Equally concerning is that approximately 15.3% of the global blind population resides in Africa. The loss of vision impacts personal independence and significantly strains healthcare systems and communities. However, with early detection, treatments for many conditions can be more effective. ¹ ³ ⁴
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration affects approximately 20 million people globally and is the leading cause of vision loss among those aged 60 and over. Meanwhile, around 18 million people live with DME, often linked to poorly controlled diabetes. Left untreated, DME can result in severe vision impairment. Additionally, more than 28 million individuals are affected by retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Roche Pharmaceuticals remains committed to raising awareness about these preventable causes of blindness, emphasising the importance of early detection and timely treatment. Michelle Roberts, Country Medical Director, Roche Pharma South Africa, says, “As healthcare systems face growing pressures, the increasing cases of retinal disease create a common challenge for health services and medical professionals. This calls for innovative approaches and joint efforts to tackle the issue.
A comprehensive dilated eye exam by an eye doctor may find eye diseases before they progress, and through voluntary eye testing and appropriate treatment, people of all ages M-ZA-00002333 can maintain their freedom to see and continue to live their lives without compromising on simple daily tasks – like going to work, driving or seeing loved ones”.
According to the WHO, as global populations age, nearly everyone will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime that will require appropriate care. Loss of vision has a considerable impact on quality of life, often preventing previously economically active people from working, performing simple, everyday tasks and maintaining positive mental health.
Roberts highlights that new advancements in the treatment of nAMD and DME – two of the leading causes of progressive vision loss – offer people the chance to maintain their sight and independence with less discomfort. “As more information on these therapies becomes available, the outlook for people living with retinal conditions continues to improve,” she adds, concluding, “The ability to see your world is priceless”.
“As treatment advances continue, we encourage all South Africans to visit clinics or local healthcare professionals for regular eye check-ups. Early detection is key—taking care of your vision is vital for long-term health and quality of life.”⁴
References:
Roche Vabysmo Launch Release (Page 2, paragraph 3, line 7)
Roche Window to Change Portal (Age-related macular degeneration infographic)
WHO Control and Prevention of Blindness (Paragraph 1, Line 4)
WHO Eye Health Overview (Paragraphs 1-3)
