Age isn’t the only factor that increases glaucoma risk. Ethnicity, family history, and chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure also play a significant role in how and when glaucoma develops.
At Everett & Hurite, we specialize in providing advanced, patient-centered glaucoma care in Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. Our board-certified ophthalmologists use state-of-the-art diagnostics to identify early signs of damage and deliver timely, tailored treatment to preserve your vision. Call 412-288-0858 or schedule a glaucoma screening online today.
Let’s take a closer look at the most important risk factors and how they guide screening decisions.
Understanding Glaucoma and Its Risks
Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that gradually damages the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). It is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide.
What makes glaucoma so dangerous is its silent progression. The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly without noticeable symptoms—until vision loss becomes permanent.
How Age Affects Glaucoma Risk
Age is one of the strongest predictors of glaucoma. The risk of developing glaucoma, particularly primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, increases significantly after age 60. For this reason, most screening guidelines recommend more frequent glaucoma tests as we age.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests:
- Ages 40–54: Eye exams every 2–4 years
- Ages 55–64: Eye exams every 1–3 years
- Ages 65+: Annual or biennial eye exams
Regular exams are key because open-angle glaucoma progresses silently, causing no symptoms until vision is permanently affected.
Ethnic Groups with Higher Glaucoma Prevalence
Some racial and ethnic groups face higher glaucoma risk due to genetic predisposition and other health disparities:
- Black patients: Up to 4 times more likely to develop glaucoma, often earlier and with more aggressive progression.
- Hispanic/Latino patients: Increased risk of open-angle glaucoma, especially over the age of 60.
- Asian populations: Higher rates of angle-closure glaucoma, which can cause sudden vision loss and severe eye pain.
These racial and ethnic disparities underscore the importance of early and more frequent screenings in these communities.
The Role of Health Conditions in Glaucoma Risk
Several chronic health conditions can elevate your risk of developing glaucoma:
- Diabetes: Increases risk of both primary open-angle glaucoma and secondary types due to its impact on blood vessels and eye health.
- High blood pressure: May affect blood flow to the optic nerve, potentially worsening damage from elevated eye pressure.
- Ocular hypertension: Having higher-than-normal eye pressure without optic nerve damage still puts you at risk for developing glaucoma.
- Family history: Having a parent or sibling with glaucoma increases your risk substantially.
If you have any of these risk factors, regular glaucoma tests, including eye pressure measurement, visual field testing, and optic nerve imaging, are essential for early detection.
Glaucoma Screening Guidelines Based on Risk Level
Your risk for glaucoma isn’t the same as everyone else’s, which is why screening recommendations should reflect your individual health profile. If you fall into any of the following categories, your eye doctor may recommend annual glaucoma screenings to closely monitor for early signs of damage:
- Age 60 or older
- African American or Hispanic descent
- A family history of glaucoma
- Diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure
- History of eye injury or long-term use of corticosteroid medications
Routine exams are critical in these cases because glaucoma often develops without symptoms. Following your provider’s recommended screening schedule helps ensure any changes in eye pressure or optic nerve health are detected early, when treatment can make the greatest impact.
Why Early Detection Matters
Glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight” because vision loss happens slowly—and often without warning. Early detection allows for timely glaucoma treatment, which may include:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure
- Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS)
- Regular monitoring of optic nerve health
Because damage is irreversible, the goal of treatment is to prevent further vision loss, not to restore sight already lost. This is why identifying risk early and staying consistent with care is so important.
Simple Steps to Support Long-Term Eye Health
Taking charge of your eye health can make a real difference in preventing glaucoma-related vision loss. These proactive habits can help you stay ahead of the condition:
- Schedule regular eye exams based on your age and personal risk level.
- Manage systemic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure that may increase your risk.
- Understand your family history and share it with your eye care provider.
- Follow treatment plans closely, including using prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Stay informed and ask questions to improve your understanding of glaucoma and eye health overall.
Protecting your vision starts with awareness and consistent care. The earlier glaucoma is identified and managed, the better your long-term outlook.
Protect Your Vision with Expert Glaucoma Screening at Everett & Hurite
If you’re over 60, have a family history, or live with a chronic condition, glaucoma screening could be one of the most important health steps you take this year. At Everett & Hurite, we provide comprehensive glaucoma care backed by advanced diagnostics, experienced physicians, and a deep commitment to your long-term vision.
Call 412-288-0858 or request your appointment online to schedule your glaucoma exam at one of our Pittsburgh-area locations.
