CHICAGO—Prevent Blindness America (PBA), the leading volunteer eye health and safety organization, has joined other leading eyecare groups in designating January as National Glaucoma Awareness Month in an effort to educate the public on the disease.

PBA offers free informational resources, including treatment options and general information through its Web site and toll free number. “The Glaucoma Learning Center,” at www.preventblindness.org/glaucoma contains a variety of resources including an adult vision risk assessment and an interactive guide on how to take eye drops. The Web site also includes “The Glaucoma Web Discussion Forum” that allows patients and caregivers the opportunity to discuss online all subjects related to the disease.

PBA also offers free printed materials including the “Guide for People with Glaucoma.” This comprehensive booklet serves as a handbook for patients and includes information on what to expect during treatment and even a list of questions to ask the eye doctor. The group also offers a resource directory for those who may require financial assistance.

And, consumers can obtain free printed materials on glaucoma in either English or Spanish by calling (800) 331-2020. Additional information can be found online at www.preventblindness.org/glaucoma.