The Lions Club of Capo d’Orlando is launching a series of free eye screenings across the Nebrodi region of Sicily, Italy, in conjunction with World Glaucoma Week. The initiative aims to promote early detection of glaucoma, a potentially sight-threatening condition often developing without noticeable symptoms in its initial stages.
Screenings will be offered to the public in the towns of Sinagra, Capo d’Orlando, and Gioiosa Marea, providing free vision tests, intraocular pressure measurements, and assessments for signs of maculopathy. The project is being carried out in collaboration with the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Messina section, recognizing the critical need for preventative eye care.
Glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” can lead to permanent vision loss if left undiagnosed, and untreated. Early detection is key to managing the condition and preserving eyesight. The screenings will particularly focus on individuals over the age of 40, a demographic at higher risk of developing the disease.
The Lions Club initiative will utilize a mobile health unit – a fully equipped camper – to bring the screenings directly to communities. Volunteers from the Lions Club, local municipal administrations, the Civic Health Network, and healthcare professionals will provide support throughout the events. In select locations, hearing tests will also be available, in partnership with Amplifon.
Screening Schedule and Locations
The free glaucoma screenings will be held on the following dates and locations:
- Thursday, March 12, 2026: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM in Piazza San Teodoro, Sinagra
- Thursday, March 12, 2026: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM in Piazza Matteotti, Capo d’Orlando
- Friday, March 13, 2026: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM in Piazza Cavour, Gioiosa Marea
Maria Trusso Sfrazzetto, president of the Lions Club Capo d’Orlando, and Maria C. Briguglio, ophthalmologist and coordinator of the Lions Sicily Vision Area, emphasized the importance of proactive eye care. “Glaucoma is a insidious disease, often without symptoms in the early stages, but it can cause irreversible damage to vision,” Sfrazzetto and Briguglio stated. “That’s why prevention and regular check-ups are crucial, especially after the age of 40. Through these screening days, we want to offer the community not only a free check-up, but also a moment of information and awareness about the importance of visual health.”
Appointments are required due to limited availability and can be scheduled through the social services offices of the participating municipalities. The screenings will provide a valuable opportunity for residents of the Nebrodi region to assess their eye health and learn more about glaucoma prevention. The initiative coincides with World Glaucoma Week, running from March 8th to 14th, 2026, a global effort to raise awareness about the disease and promote early detection.
The Lions Club’s commitment to preventative healthcare extends beyond glaucoma screenings. Previous initiatives, as reported in January 2020, included vision and glaucoma screenings reaching over 100 people in Capo d’Orlando and Brolo. Future planned preventative health initiatives include hearing checks on February 1st, Alzheimer’s screenings on February 15th, and diabetes and blood pressure checks on February 29th.
As the screenings approach, residents are encouraged to contact their local social services office to book an appointment and prioritize their eye health. The collaborative effort between the Lions Club, local authorities, and healthcare professionals underscores a commitment to community well-being and proactive healthcare in the Nebrodi region.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
What are your thoughts on preventative health initiatives like this? Share your comments below and help spread awareness!