World Keratoconus Day!
World Keratoconus Day (KC Day) 2019 is just a few months away. This day gives us the opportunity to raise awareness about the condition and what can be done to prevent it.
What Is KC Day?
World KC Day will take place on November 10th, 2019. It is a day set aside and sponsored by the National Keratoconus Foundation, an educational program of the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, UC Irvine, to raise awareness about keratoconus (KC). World KC Day is dedicated to educating the world about keratoconus and advocating for individuals living with the condition.
The foundation has been responsible for many actions aimed at increasing awareness about the condition and helping to fund scientific research into the causes and treatment of keratoconus.
About Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the cornea, which is typically dome-shaped, progressively thins and weakens, causing a cone-like bulge to develop in the area where the cornea is thinnest (usually in the center).
Keratoconus is a degenerative condition which is believed to affect 1 out of every 2,000 people in the general population. It is found in all parts of the world and in all ethnic groups. If the right treatment is not offered in time, KC can result in significant vision loss and legal blindness.
Scleral Lenses As A Possible Solution For Keratoconus
When individuals are diagnosed with KC, there are a number of possible treatments that can be employed, one of which is the use of scleral lenses. The type or stage of keratoconus will normally determine the design of lenses to use. What matters most is what fits the patient’s eye, corrects vision, and offers comfortable wear. Scleral lenses are always helpful tools. These large diameter lenses rest on the sclera and vault over the cornea. They have several advantages, including the fact that dust and dirt particles cannot get under them when the patient is wearing them.
Staying Updated
You can stay up-to-date with keratoconus news, events, and other important information. Visit the NKCF website (www.nkcf.com) for additional information. You can also join some keratoconus groups on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms.
How You Can Get Involved
Anyone can help spread keratoconus awareness. In fact, everyone is encouraged to get involved. Some of the simplest ways include sharing messages via social media and using the hashtag #WorldKCDay. You can also talk to family and friends about the condition and encourage them to help spread the word, too. Share your stories, struggles, and successes to support others with keratoconus.
Act Now
KC is a serious eye condition that needs more attention than it currently gets. You can help make 2019 World Keratoconus Day a bigger success than ever before. If you suffer from keratoconus or know someone who struggles with their vision, contact EYEcenter Optometric today.
Our eye doctors are available to speak with you and examine your eyes. We serve both adults and young patients at our vision care center!