Glaucoma: Some facts and ways to treat

Glaucoma – the “Sneak Thief of Sight” – Can Lead to Vision Loss

Although not preventable, glaucoma can be treated if detected early

St. Louis, MO (January 7, 2009) – Glaucoma – often called “the sneak thief of sight” because it can strike without pain or other symptoms – is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. Unfortunately, the vast majority of Americans – 91 percent – incorrectly believe glaucoma is preventable, according to the newest survey by the American Optometric Association (AOA). Although glaucoma is not preventable, if diagnosed and treated early, doctors of optometry can help a patient control the disease. Medication or surgery can slow or prevent further vision loss.

Approximately 2.2 million Americans age 40 and older have glaucoma, according to National Glaucoma Research; of these, as many as 120,000 are blind because of the disease. The number of Americans with glaucoma is estimated to increase to 3.3 million by the year 2020, as baby boomers age.
According to the AOA, glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that occur when internal pressure in the eye increases enough to cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to loss of nerve tissue, resulting in vision loss.