Risk Factors That Can Lead To Glaucoma

Race

An individual's race may also play a role in their likelihood of developing glaucoma. Reports indicate African Americans and Latinos are more at risk of developing open-angle glaucoma. African Americans are also more likely to develop the disease earlier and with a greater rate of vision loss. East Asians and individuals of Inuit ancestry are more apt to develop angle-closure glaucoma. Furthermore, individuals of Japanese descent are at an increased risk of developing normal-tension glaucoma. While certain ethnicities may be at an increased risk of glaucoma, anyone can develop the condition, and as such, everyone should undergo regular eye exams to be proactive about the health of their eyes.

Family History

A fair amount of research has shown an individual with a family history of glaucoma is at roughly a twenty percent increased risk of developing the condition themselves than someone who does not have the family history. Breaking this down further should individuals who have a sibling with glaucoma have a tenfold increased risk of also developing the condition. Individuals with a family history of glaucoma, therefore, should always ensure they visit their optometrist regularly to have their eyes examined and tested for glaucoma. After age thirty-five, the vast majority of individuals should visit the optometrist at least every two years for testing. Should glaucoma be detected, these visits will increase based on the treatment plan chosen.