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You Might Be More Likely To Develop Glaucoma Than You Thought
When it comes to glaucoma, there may be more than a family history at work when it comes to how likely you are to develop the condition.
People who live in the northern United States vs. the Southern region of the country have a higher chance of developing glaucoma. Age also was identified as a factor, with risk rising as we age.
There is also a new study that shows that women are more likely to develop exfoliation syndrome, or ES, where material builds up on the eye lens and then rubs off, which in turn can lead to a type of glaucoma and even cataracts. The National Eye Institute says that ES is the major cause of open-angle glaucoma and a leading cause of blindness. It’s estimated that more than 3 million Americans will suffer from the disease by 2020.
While the study’s information is preliminary and there is much more research to be done, it reminds us of the need to have annual eye exams done, especially if there’s a family history of glaucoma. The earlier this condition is caught, the more likely treatment will be successful.