More than 4 million people in the United States have glaucoma and about 35% have related vision loss.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Moreover, among African American and Latino populations, glaucoma is more prevalent. Glaucoma is 6 to 8 times more common in African Americans than Caucasians.
Over 80 million people worldwide have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them don’t know they have it. The World Health Organization estimates that 4.5 million people worldwide are blind due to glaucoma.
The “Silent Thief of Sight” – Glaucoma
Glaucoma has no symptoms in its early stages. It is such a silent thief of sight that half of the people with glaucoma do not know they have it! However, by taking responsibility for your eye health and scheduling regular eye exams, you can be proactive in preventing this disease. Your eye doctor can find this disease and inform you how often you should be examined.
Can Glaucoma be stopped?
Glaucoma damage is permanent and cannot be reversed. However, medicine and surgery can help to stop further damage. Your eye doctor may use medication or laser surgery to treat glaucoma for therapy methods.
Glaucoma treatment works best when we work together. Early care can slow vision loss, so make your New Year count—put an eye exam at the top of your list.