Proclaiming January 2009 as "National Glaucoma Awareness Month"

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