An international ophthalmology conference in Dubai

Still, regular eye exams and early treatment can reverse the increasing trend toward permanent vision loss in the region, say visiting physicians.

"Early detection of eye diseases through regular eye exams is vital, as many are fast progressing diseases that on average causes patients to lose vision in two years, or in some cases, after as little as three months," said Dr.Hany Fouad, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Department Of Health- Dubai.

More than 300 doctors from across Africa and the Middle East have gathered in Dubai from 12 April to discuss the latest international trends in the treatment of various eye diseases and conditions.

The scientific meeting -organized and sponsored by Pfizer Corporation - provides participating doctors with an opportunity to learn more about advances in treatment from US, European, and Australian physicians who are leaders in their respective fields.

"Eye disease in the Middle East blinds thousands needlessly each year, because not all doctors treating patients are aware of the latest options available to them. The aim of this year's meeting is to raise critical awareness around certain eye diseases while highlighting the world's best therapies," said Dr. Chris Migom, Pfizer's Regional Medical Director for Africa and Middle East.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in elderly in the world; however, Pfizer will soon be introducing in the Middle East a new drug, Macugen, to treat AMD.

Macugen is a real innovation for the treatment of AMD, an age-related eye disease that destroys central vision critical to reading, driving and color vision; Macugen is approved by the FDA and marketed in the US since December 04 and early this year it had been approved and marketed in the European countries.

Macugen is an important addition to Pfizer ophthalmology portfolio that includes worldwide-leading glaucoma medications Xalatan and Xalacom which are available in the Middle East and are offering one of the best treatment options for many Glaucoma sufferers.

The event was opened at 7pm on Wednesday, 12 April by Mr.Abdullah Mohammed Bin Souqat representing the DOHMS.