January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time set aside to spotlight a disease that quietly robs millions of people of their vision each year. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause irreversible blindness if left untreated, frequently progressing without any noticeable symptoms.
“Early detection by having a comprehensive dilated eye exam is key to protecting vision,” said Dr. Paul A. Sieving, director of the National Eye Institute (NEI). He emphasized that regular exams are critical, especially for people at higher risk, because once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be restored.Glaucoma affects more than four million Americans, yet experts estimate that nearly half of those living with the disease do not know they have it. Those at greatest risk include adults over 60, African Americans over 40, Hispanic and Latino individuals, Asian Americans, and anyone with a family history of the disease. Conditions such as diabetes or severe nearsightedness can also increase risk. Globally, an estimated 80 million people live with glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide.
“There’s a misconception that vision loss from glaucoma can be reversed,” Dr. Sieving said. “But once it’s gone, it’s permanent, which is why early detection and treatment are so important”.
Experts urge everyone, especially those in high-risk groups, to schedule regular dilated eye exams, which allow doctors to examine the optic nerve and measure eye pressure to catch early signs of the disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling chronic conditions, and understanding family eye history can also help preserve vision.
