[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 47 (Wednesday, March 18, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S3367]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                      RECOGNIZING DUKE EYE CENTER

 Mr. BURR. Mr. President, today I recognize the Duke Eye Center 
in North Carolina for its determined efforts to promote awareness, 
treatment, and prevention of glaucoma. Glaucoma, an optic nerve 
disease, is the leading cause of incurable blindness in the United 
States. Worldwide, 70 million people suffer from the disease, 2.2 
million of those in the United States. Because the disease does not 
usually show signs until the point that irreversible vision loss 
occurs, the development of early detection and prevention strategies is 
imperative.
  We recently observed World Glaucoma Day, on March 12, 2009. In light 
of this important observance, I express my thanks for the researchers 
and staff at the Duke Eye Center, who are devoted to the task of 
uncovering the cause of glaucoma. Historically, most research and 
treatment has focused on reducing elevated pressure within the eye. 
However, not everyone with glaucoma has elevated pressure, and not 
everyone with elevated pressure develops glaucoma. Researchers at the 
Duke Eye Center are working diligently to uncover other possible causes 
of the disease. Researchers and clinicians have excellent working 
relationships, collaborating on genomics, oxidative stress, and even 
links to Alzheimer's disease. They are performing cutting edge 
research, while at the same time delivering cutting edge patient care.
  In 2008, Ophthalmology Times ranked the Duke Eye Center fourth best 
among U.S. ophthalmology programs. I applaud their hard work and 
achievements in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of 
glaucoma.

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