UPDATE: A surge of community engagement marked the free glaucoma screenings held on January 29, 2023, in Selma, Alabama, as local leaders declared the month as Glaucoma Awareness Month. The Visually Impaired People Organization, Inc. (V.I.P.) partnered with Selma’s Primary Eye Care to provide essential eye pressure tests to over 20-25 individuals, highlighting the critical importance of early detection.
Dr. Kristina Lovinggood conducted the screenings, revealing that this year’s turnout was the highest since the program’s inception in 2015. William Bowman, CEO and President of V.I.P., expressed his gratitude, stating, “I’m just glad that people took time out of their day to get an eye screening.” Alarmingly, 10-15 attendees were advised to return for follow-up appointments due to elevated eye pressure, a potential indicator of glaucoma.
The urgency of these screenings cannot be overstated. Bowman emphasized, “Early detection is important. Once you have a serious visual impairment, your life drastically changes.” The eye pressure test, known as tonometry, is crucial not only for diagnosing glaucoma but also for uncovering other serious health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and various cancers.
Local officials, including Selma Mayor Johnny Moss III and Dallas County Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn, attended the event and presented proclamations designating January as Glaucoma Awareness Month in Selma and Dallas County. Their presence underscored the local government’s commitment to public health and the importance of eye care.
Bowman urged those who missed the event to take action: “Even if you weren’t able to make it to this event, still give Dr. Lovinggood a call to get scheduled for a screening.” Primary Eye Care is located at 2401 Medical Center Parkway in Selma.
The outpouring of support for eye health in Selma serves as a reminder of the community’s dedication to preventive care. As the awareness campaign continues, it is crucial for residents to prioritize their eye health and seek regular screenings to prevent serious visual impairments.
Stay tuned for more updates on community health initiatives and the ongoing importance of early detection in preventing eye diseases.
