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Sukhdeep Aasht, organizes 3rd Global Inclusivity Run by Visually Impaired for Awareness of Glaucoma
New Delhi (India), February 22: Mr. Sukhdeep Singh Aasht, organized “Global Inclusivity Run for Awareness of Glaucoma by visually impaired”. Around 2800 Visually Impaired along with Guides took confident step forward across 62 countries/regions, leading to Glaucoma awareness to over 300,000. This initiative is first of its kind Globally and has recently received endorsement for its 3rd season, […]
New Delhi (India), February 22: Mr. Sukhdeep Singh Aasht, organized “Global Inclusivity Run for Awareness of Glaucoma by visually impaired”. Around 2800 Visually Impaired along with Guides took confident step forward across 62 countries/regions, leading to Glaucoma awareness to over 300,000. This initiative is first of its kind Globally and has recently received endorsement for its 3rd season, from World Glaucoma Association, Netherlands, which conducts ‘World Glaucoma Week’ every year starting on 12 March (World Glaucoma Day). Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible visual impairment worldwide and is called “the silent thief of sight” since it does not show any noticeable symptoms until its advanced stage.
“Through this Global Initiative, I want to give the visually impaired the gift of confidence and make people aware of Glaucoma all at once.” Says Sukhdeep with smiles. He himself is a Marathoner, Ultra Triathlete, Ironman 140.6 distance and have run many times with cloth on eyes to spread Glaucoma awareness. He further states, Glaucoma prevention and treatment have long been at the focus of international directives, including the WHO’s Vision 2020 campaign and World Glaucoma Association, Netherlands.
As per WHO report globally there are 43 million people living with blindness and 295 million people living with moderate-to-severe visual impairment. Out of these, a huge 77% is completely preventable or treatable. Only early diagnosis, followed by treatments that slow its progression can curb blindness. As per WHO vision impairment poses an enormous global financial burden with the annual global costs of productivity losses.
