The City Council of Philadelphia designates the Month of January 2009, as National Glaucoma Awareness Month in Philadelphia.
WHEREAS
, January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, an important time to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease; and
WHEREAS
, Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness from infants to seniors; and
WHEREAS
, Among African-American and Hispanic populations, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness; and
WHEREAS
, Over 3 million Americans, and nearly 70 million people worldwide, have glaucoma, unfortunately, experts estimate that half of them don't know they have it; and
WHEREAS
, Combined with our aging population, we can see an epidemic of blindness looming if we don't raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision; and
WHEREAS
, The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye examination, and then, if you have glaucoma, treatment can begin immediately; and
WHEREAS
, The most common type of glaucoma—primary open angle glaucoma—is hereditary; so if you do have glaucoma, don't keep it a secret. Let your family members know they are at increased risk.
Now Therefore, Be It Resolved, By the City Council of Philadelphia that the Month of January 2009, shall be declared National Glaucoma Awareness Month in Philadelphia.
End