WHO IS AT RISK?
Glaucoma can afflict any human being with an eye, and it can be due to various reasons as seen above. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are the best way to preserve vision.
Consequently, the importance of regular eye examination for people of all ages cannot be over-emphasized. However, there are some conditions associated with the disease that puts some people at greater risk of developing glaucoma:
People over 45: Though younger people are not immune to glaucoma, older people have a greater tendency to develop the disease
Family History: Glaucoma appears to be a hereditary disease. The tendency to develop the disease may be in the genes. However, it is also true that just because someone in the family has glaucoma, it does not mean others will develop it too.
High Intra-Ocular Pressure: Elevated IOP levels are the most important factor in the development of glaucoma
African Ancestry: People of African descent have a greater tendency to develop primary open-angle glaucoma than people of other ethnicities.
Others: Myopic people, diabetics, long-term steroid/cortisone users and people with an eye injury are more prone to developing glaucoma