Junho Violeta campaign highlights elder abuse warnings and keratoconus eye disease in Brazil

The June‑long "Junho Violeta" campaign in Brazil aims to raise public awareness of two serious health issues. One focus is elder abuse, with the campaign listing seven warning signs such as loss of appetite, bruises, poor hygiene, social isolation and fear of caregivers. It urges family members, neighbours and health professionals to report suspected cases anonymously through Disque 100 or by calling the police.

Another focus is keratoconus, a progressive corneal disorder that can silently impair vision. The campaign notes that about 150,000 Brazilians are diagnosed each year, often in their teens or twenties. Early symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, increased eyeglass prescriptions, sensitivity to light and halos around lights. Frequent eye‑rubbing, especially among people with allergic eyes, is identified as a risk factor. Early detection through regular eye examinations and corneal topography is emphasized. Treatment options range from glasses and specialised contact lenses in early stages to surgical interventions or corneal transplants for advanced disease. Data from the Brazilian transplant association show a 276 % rise in corneal transplants between 2015 and 2025, with 70 % linked to keratoconus. The campaign stresses that timely diagnosis and intervention can preserve vision and improve quality of life.