Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide and is aptly called the “silent thief of sight” because it does not show symptoms like pain. By the time it is detected, irreversible vision loss may have already occurred. Unlike other eye diseases, glaucoma primarily affects peripheral vision, making early detection crucial. The condition is caused by optic nerve damage (the nerve connecting the eye to the brain) due to increased eye pressure, leading to gradual and permanent vision loss.
Therefore, raising awareness about glaucoma is crucial, especially for individuals over 40 years of age and those with risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, hypertension, eye trauma, chronic steroid use, high myopia, or hypermetropia (high minus or high plus). Every year, the second week of March is observed as Glaucoma Awareness Week, and this year it falls between March 9th–15th.
To highlight this vision-threatening condition, promote prevention, and increase public awareness, Narayana Nethralaya organized a run called the Sight Saver Run on March 9th, 2025, at Jarakabande Reserve Forest, Ramagondanahalli, Bengaluru-560064. The uniqueness of the event was having people step out of their routines, running through a forest terrain, embracing nature’s peace and tranquillity—all for a meaningful cause.
The race had two categories: a 5K and a 10K run, set against a breath-taking scenic trail, making it both an adventure and an awareness initiative. The event was flagged off by the esteemed Mr. Arjun Devaiah, an international athlete and South Asian Games champion and graced by Gp Capt S K Mittal VSM, CEO, Narayana Nethralaya, and RJ Pradeep from 92.7 Big FM joining the cause.
“We are surrounded by so much information through social media and the internet, yet it’s shocking how little we know about glaucoma—the silent thief of sight. It comes without pain or warning, stealing vision quietly. Events like these help educate people about conditions like glaucoma. Each one of us must be proactive about routine eye check-ups, especially if there’s a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or other medical conditions. Early detection is the only way to stop glaucoma in its tracks.”, Mr. Arjun Devaiah
The event saw participation from around 300 people, including men, women and children. The run included glaucoma doctors, led by their Heads of Department, along with the staff of Narayana Nethralaya—supporting, participating and cheering for the cause. The winners and runners-up of the 5K and 10K runs were awarded under the men’s and women’s categories separately, with certificates and trophy presented by the chief guests. The participants experienced a wonderful adventure under a pleasant atmosphere, serving the goal
of spreading the message about glaucoma and its effects on vision. Beyond raising awareness about glaucoma, the event carried a larger purpose—to give back to nature. As part of our efforts towards a greener planet, saplings were distributed to participants and planted at the venue, contributing to a healthier planet for a healthier future.
“Narayana Nethralaya has been at the forefront in the fight against glaucoma. Every year, we focus on spreading awareness about this condition and the irreversible blindness it can cause. Since vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be reversed, preventive measures like regular eye check-ups and early detection are crucial. At our hospital, we have embraced modern science and advanced technology to improve diagnosis and treatment
planning—ensuring that glaucoma patients receive better care and enjoy a higher quality of life. Today’s run isn’t just about saving sight—it’s also about contributing to the planet. By planting saplings, we’re taking a small but meaningful step toward a healthier, greener future for all” – Gp Capt S K Mittal VSM, CEO, Narayana Nethralaya
The Sight Saver Run was a movement to minimize the burden of preventable blindness by encouraging people to undergo regular eye check-ups, ensuring that conditions like glaucoma do not negatively impact lives. It brought people together not just for sight but also to contribute toward a greener planet. This positive step today is about building a future where everyone can see clearly and live a healthy life.
