Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and the second most common cause after cataracts. In 2020, around 76 million people had glaucoma, and this number could rise to 112 million by 2040, according to research in Ophthalmology. In the United States, approximately 4.22 million adults have glaucoma, and nearly half are unaware they are affected. People in low-income and underserved communities are at higher risk because they often cannot access the care they need, so the disease may go unnoticed until vision becomes severely impaired.

What Is Glaucoma

Glaucoma is not a single disease. It refers to a group of eye conditions that harm the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain and allows us to see. This damage usually happens when the pressure inside the eye, called intraocular pressure (IOP), gets too high. If eye fluid doesn't drain properly, pressure increases and slowly damages the sensitive nerve fibers.

The most common type, primary open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is less common and occurs suddenly, requiring prompt medical attention. Other types include normal-tension glaucoma, in which damage

occurs even without high pressure, and secondary glaucoma, caused by other health issues.

Vision loss caused by glaucoma is irreversible. Once the optic nerve is damaged, vision cannot be restored. This is why early detection of glaucoma is so crucial.

Who Is at Greatest Risk?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people have a higher risk. Knowing these risk factors can help you protect your vision.

• Age: People over 60 are at a significantly higher risk, and those over 80 face the greatest danger.

• Family history: Having a parent or sibling with glaucoma significantly raises your risk.

• The Glaucoma Research Foundation reports that African Americans are 6 to 8 times more likely to go blind from glaucoma than white Americans. Hispanic and Latino people are also at a higher risk.

• High intraocular pressure: Even without symptoms, increased eye pressure is a serious warning sign.

• History of eye injuries or surgeries

• Certain medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are all connected to an increased risk of glaucoma.

Symptoms: Why "Silent" Is So Dangerous

One of the most harmful aspects of open-angle glaucoma is that it rarely shows early signs. Vision loss begins at the edges and gradually moves inward, so slowly that your brain adjusts, and you don’t notice until the damage becomes severe. By the time your central vision is affected, the loss is significant and irreversible.

Some warning signs that might signal acute or advanced glaucoma include:

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision

• Tunnel vision in later stages

• Sudden eye pain or pressure (acute angle closure)

• Intense eye pain can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting

• Blurred vision and halos around lights

• Redness of the eye

Since early glaucoma doesn't cause symptoms, only a thorough dilated eye exam can detect it. Regular eye checkups are essential, not just a good idea.

Can Glaucoma Be Treated?

Vision lost from glaucoma cannot be restored, but treatment can slow or stop the disease from getting worse. The main goal is to reduce eye pressure and protect the remaining healthy optic nerve.

Treatments for glaucoma include prescription eye drops, pills, laser procedures, and surgeries to lower eye pressure. The Global Burden of Disease 2021 study warns that without better screening and treatment, nearly 12 million people could become blind from glaucoma by 2050, even though it can often be prevented. Regular checkups and care help many preserve their vision for life. Early diagnosis is crucial.

Getting regular eye exams is the most effective way to detect glaucoma early. Nothing else is as reliable.

The Equity Crisis in Glaucoma Care

Glaucoma often impacts communities that already face barriers to healthcare. African Americans tend to develop glaucoma at a younger age, progress faster, and are much more likely to go blind, mostly due to limited access to eye care or resources. Many at risk never get the eye exam that could detect glaucoma early and prevent permanent damage. This leads to a preventable health crisis in Florida and across the country.

Lions Saving Sight: One Person at a Time

Lions Saving Sight knows that treatment only works if people can access it. Our goal is clear: no one should lose their sight because they can't afford care. We work with experienced eye surgeons to help those in need of vision care. If you know someone at risk for glaucoma or needing eye surgery but can't pay, please reach out to us. If you can support our mission, your donation helps fund life-changing procedures.

Protecting Your Vision: Steps to Take Today

• Schedule a thorough dilated eye exam, especially if you’re over 40 or have risk factors.

• Know your family health history and talk about it with your eye care provider.

• If your doctor prescribes glaucoma medication, take it exactly as directed. Following your treatment carefully is the best way to protect your vision.

• Increase awareness in your community, especially among older adults and high-risk groups.

• Support Lions Saving Sight. You can make a difference by donating or volunteering to help bridge the access gap and ensure more people get the eye care they need. This work helps restore dignity, independence, and opportunity." — Lions Saving Sight