UNRAVELING GLAUCOMA:

understanding the disease through interactive experience

Abstract

This study discusses an educational activity conducted in Belo Horizonte aimed at raising awareness about glaucoma, a progressive and asymptomatic eye disease that can lead to blindness. The event, titled "Unveiling Glaucoma: Understanding the Disease Through Interactive Experience," took place at the Mercado Central and combined scientific information with a sensory experience. During the activity, participants used special glasses to simulate the progressive visual loss associated with glaucoma, gaining a deeper understanding of the limitations imposed by the disease. The interactive circuit consisted of four stations representing different stages of glaucoma and included practical activities, such as walking with obstacles, to enhance participants' perception of visual impairment. Data from questionnaires applied before and after the experience showed a significant increase in knowledge about glaucoma, its risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention, highlighting the positive impact of the sensory approach on awareness. It is concluded that immersive actions that combine theory and practice effectively encourage engagement in glaucoma prevention and promote early diagnosis, contributing to the creation of a preventive culture in eye health.