Driving is a demanding activity. Drivers must see obstacles or hazards, straight ahead or in their peripheral visual field, consider the possible reactions of others, estimate the time and distance, decide upon their action and then react accordingly. Driving safety depends on many external factors as well as the condition of the driver.

Visual impairment is one of the factors in the decision to deny a person the right to drive. Losing one’s driving license is a major limitation in their lifestyle and day to day routine. Because vision is the most important factor during driving, many driving related injuries are a result of vision problems.

As per Survey of Ophthalmology, “visual acuity is related to crash involvement, whereas peripheral vision appears to play a more critical role.” One of such visual impairments may be caused by glaucoma. Glaucoma is characterized by abnormally high intraocular pressure (IOP), the pressure inside the eye. This can cause a loss of peripheral vision, which makes it more difficult to see a pedestrian or vehicle approaching from the side; in
essence creating a large blind spot.

Vision loss due to glaucoma is irreversible. However, increased intraocular (eye) pressure (IOP) is easy to screen for and detect in early stages, allowing the prevention of any further loss of sight. Routine screening can be performed by your general physician or eye care professional.

BiCOM Inc. with its unique new screening device, Diaton Tonometer, now allows this eye test to be done simply, quickly and painlessly. The Diaton Tonometermeasures intraocular pressure (IOP) Through the Eyelid, avoiding the commonly known discomfort of screening through the cornea. For the first time,Diaton Tonometry requires no contact with the cornea. Measurement is done through the upper eye lid, over the sclera, eliminating any risk of infection or discomfort.

“Too many people believe they can tell if they’re developing glaucoma,” says Dr. Gregory K. Harmon, Chairman of the Glaucoma Foundation. However, it is estimated that half of those suffering damage from glaucoma, do not know they have it. The disease has come to be called the “silent thief of sight” because it often strikes without any symptoms.

A peripheral impairment of the visual field is a reason for denying a driving license in most states in the USA. For many who do not experience any visual symptoms, it comes as a shock when they are denied renewal of their drivers license based on visual field defect or poor peripheral vision.

Patients with visual field defects, commonly due to glaucoma, have double the incidence of road accidents or traffic violations as compared to those with a full visual field according to a study by Johnson & Keltner. More importantly, almost half of those with visual field loss were unaware of any problem with peripheral vision.

You cannot influence the risk factors for glaucoma. However, you can take measures to detect the problem at an early stage and stop any further damage to your vision. Doing so will prevent it from affecting your driving safety and interfering with your routine lifestyle. Ask your doctor about routine glaucoma screening with the Diaton Tonometer, even if you think your vision is normal. Problems may be easier to correct if caught at an early stage.

About BiCOM Inc.
BiCOM, with its 15 years of tradition and global clientele, has proven to be the enterprise of the highest level of professionalism, integrity and financial solvency. A unique team of engineers, medical, legal and business experts makes BiCOM Inc. the right place for global talent to find support and guidance. BiCOM Inc. sees its mission in bringing to market innovative products developed and manufactured worldwide.

As of January 2008, BiCOM represents and supports Diaton tonometer in over 30 countries and growing with each day…

Says Mr. Boris Kun, President of BiCOM Inc: “Diaton Tonometer is a revolutionary device and signifies a new stage in Optometry and Ophthalmology!”

BiCOM Inc., with a release of tonometer Diaton to US is committing to a mission of preventing blindness caused by glaucoma.

Via EPR Network
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