Doha, April 27 (QNA) - A Qatar-based ophthalmology body has launched an international initiative to establish a global awareness day for uveitis, a potentially sight-threatening condition if left untreated.

The Qatar Society of Ophthalmology (QSO) announced the initiative in cooperation with the Saudi Ophthalmological Society and the Saudi Uveitis Society, aiming to unify international efforts and raise public awareness of the disease.

An international virtual meeting was held to mark the launch, bringing together experts from 25 countries, including representatives from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening global collaboration to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient support, as well as to reduce complications and prevent vision loss.

The meeting endorsed the second weekend of April each year as World Uveitis Day, with a focus on promoting early detection, advancing research, and enhancing medical training.

Dr Zamzam Al Baker, a senior ophthalmology consultant and chair of the initiative's founding committee, told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the Qatari-led effort had gained strong backing from regional and international partners, reflecting growing global cooperation in tackling the condition.

Discussions also highlighted awareness activities in Qatar, including the role of Hamad Medical Corporation in treating complex eye conditions through a multidisciplinary approach aligned with international standards.

Speakers noted that uveitis—an inflammation affecting the middle layer of the eye, including the iris, ciliary body and choroid—can lead to permanent visual impairment if not diagnosed and treated early. Symptoms such as eye redness, pain, light sensitivity and blurred vision require prompt medical attention.

They added that raising awareness remains a critical line of defense, as the condition is a leading cause of vision loss globally, including in developed countries and across the Middle East.

Experts also pointed to possible complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular edema and retinal detachment, as well as links to autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and Behcet's syndrome. Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment—often involving corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapies—can significantly reduce the risk of blindness.

Organizers said the initiative marks an important step towards building a coordinated international response, improving patient outcomes, and strengthening public understanding of the condition. (QNA)