Glaucoma Awareness Month: Protecting Vision Through Early Detection

Glaucoma Awareness Month is an important opportunity to shine a light on a serious eye disease that often develops silently but can have life-changing consequences. Glaucoma is a progressive condition that damages the optic nerve—the vital connection that sends visual information from the eye to the brain. When this nerve is harmed, usually due to increased pressure inside the eye, vision loss can occur. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness.

What makes glaucoma especially dangerous is that it often has no early warning signs. Many people do not realize they have the disease until noticeable vision loss has already occurred. Unfortunately, once vision is lost from glaucoma, it cannot be restored. This makes early detection and ongoing eye care essential.

THERE IS A Higher Risk in African American and Latino Communities

While glaucoma can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, research shows that African Americans face a significantly higher risk of developing the disease. They are more likely to be diagnosed at earlier ages and experience more severe vision loss compared to other populations. Studies have also found that African American and Latino patients are less likely to receive essential glaucoma testing, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

These disparities highlight the urgent need for awareness, access to care, and proactive eye health within high-risk communities.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to detect glaucoma early. These exams include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, and performing visual field tests—all critical tools in identifying glaucoma before significant damage occurs. Early diagnosis allows for treatments, such as eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery, that can slow or prevent further vision loss.

Take Action This Glaucoma Awareness Month

Protecting your vision starts with awareness and action:

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam, especially if you are over 40 or have a family history of glaucoma
Encourage loved ones, particularly older adults and those in high-risk groups, to get checked
Stay informed about eye health and the importance of routine screenings

This Glaucoma Awareness Month, let’s work together to spread the message: early detection saves sight. By prioritizing regular eye exams and supporting awareness in our communities, we can help reduce preventable vision loss and protect the gift of sight for generations to come.

“The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that healthy adults with no visual problems or risk factors have a complete eye exam at age 40. However, if there is a history of hypertension, diabetes, eye injury or family history of eye disease the screening should happen earlier.”

— Dr. Chris McCoy, NJMA Member