Doctors know that a disease can take a different course depending on the gender, age or race of the patient. Medical researchers are now finding that medications can also work differently based on those factors. During clinical trials Travatan(TM) proved to be the first drug of its kind to be even more effective among African Americans. Evaluations showed the drug as highly effective in lowering IOP among ALL patients, and especially high among black patients.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that create pressure within the eye that becomes too high. The high pressure ultimately damages the optic nerve, resulting in permanent loss of vision. African Americans are six to eight times more likely to have glaucoma, are effected at a younger age, and are much more likely to be blinded by the disease. Glaucoma accounts for approximately 12% of all new cases of blindness in the United States each year.

This dangerous disease cannot be prevented, but the consequences can be significantly delayed with early detection and appropriate treatment. Once vision loss from glaucoma occurs it is irreversible. As with any medical condition, it is always best to see your doctor. For more information you can log onto www.travatan.com.

WHAT WE HAVE: VNR and b-roll package on new drug to treat glaucoma that is especially effective for African American patients. Soundbites: Dr. Bryan Flowers, American Glaucoma Society, on prevalence of the disease among blacks; that vision loss is irreversible and early detection and treatment is key. Dr. Jess Whitson, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School on the effectiveness of Travatan among black patients. B-roll: Various shots of woman getting eye exam, consulting with doctor; Travatan bottle; Doctor writing prescription.

TO RECEIVE BY SATELLITE: C-BAND,

  

      THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2001                2:00 - 2:15 p.m. ET (11:00 - 11:15 a.m. PT)                                         TELSTAR 6, Transponder 21 D/L 4120 MHz (V)