Barbados will observe World Glaucoma Week 2026 from March 8 to 14 with a number of activities to shed light on the prevalent eye disease.

Themed, Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World, the week will feature free eye screenings at several locations around the island. It will get started with a church service at the Collymore Rock Church of the Nazarene, Collymore Rock, St. Michael, on Sunday, March 8, at 9:00 a.m. Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, will deliver the feature address.

Prior to the week, on Saturday, March 7, Ophthalmologist, Dr. Kendi Griffith, will deliver a special health talk entitled Glaucoma – The Silent Thief of Sight, at the Pilgrim Road Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Pilgrim Road, Christ Church, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Members of the public are invited.

Additionally, from Monday, March 9 to Friday, March 13, there will be free screenings by participating ophthalmology and optometry practices. Members of the public may call the nearest eye care professional to book a screening.

Free screenings will also be available at the National Disabilities Unit’s Health Fair on Wednesday, March 11, at the University of the West Indies booth, at Collymore Rock, St. Michael, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

On Friday, March 13, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s (QEH) Ophthalmology Department will host free screenings for the public on the ground floor of the QEH, Martindale’s Road, St. Michael, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Early detection saves sight! Adults with a family history of glaucoma, especially over age 40, and persons of African descent, are strongly encouraged to be screened for glaucoma.

Author: Melissa Rollock

Published: March 06, 2006