85R33559 BK-D By: Price H.R. No. 2682 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, More than three million Americans are estimated to suffer from glaucoma, the leading cause of preventable blindness in the United States; and WHEREAS, Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by gradual damage to the optic nerve, which over time causes irreversible vision loss; in the early stages of its most common form, there are virtually no symptoms, and many sufferers are unaware that they have the disease until significant and permanent damage is done; and WHEREAS, Although a cure has yet to be found, early detection is crucial to slowing optic nerve damage and preserving eyesight in patients with glaucoma; the need for greater awareness is particularly acute in certain high-risk groups, including the elderly, diabetics, and persons of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent, who are encouraged to be proactive in protecting their eye health by undergoing regular examinations; and WHEREAS, Glaucoma can be treated and managed if detected in time, and National Glaucoma Awareness Month in January provides an important opportunity to promote education about this debilitating disease; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature hereby recognize National Glaucoma Awareness Month in January 2018 and urge Texans to learn more about glaucoma detection and treatment.