Norway eye health: Glaucoma prevention and specialist shortages

The Norwegian Glaukomforening is urging early vision testing to prevent glaucoma, a condition that is the second leading cause of blindness globally. In Norway, approximately 1.4 percent of the population—about 85,000 people—are diagnosed with the disease, though many cases likely remain undetected. Asle Haukaas, chairman of the Norwegian Glaukomforening, notes that the disease is often asymptomatic until significant damage to the optic nerve has occurred, leading to permanent vision loss. While there is no cure, medical intervention, medication, or surgery can slow its progression.

In a separate development regarding eye care infrastructure, Helse Midt-Norge is addressing concerns over specialized eye services in Nord-Trøndelag. Two contract specialists in Levanger have resigned to retire, and two subsequent attempts to fill these positions have failed to attract applicants. Helse Midt-Norge officials noted that eye care consumption in the Levanger hospital area has been significantly higher than the national average, exceeding expectations by 55 percent in 2025 and 65 percent in early 2026. The health authority is working to ensure continued specialized services for the region despite these staffing challenges.