Risk Factors For Glaucoma

• People over 35 years of age. The chances of developing glaucoma increase with age.
• People with a family history of glaucoma. Since glaucoma has genetic links, anyone with a blood relative who has glaucoma should schedule an eye examination at minimum of once per year. It is not a bad idea to take advantage of the free glaucoma pressure checks available during many health fairs just to monitor your intraocular pressures.
• People who are very nearsighted (Open Angle Glaucoma) or farsighted (Angle Closure Glaucoma).
• People with diabetes and certain other chronic diseases.
• Race is a predisposing factor for glaucoma. Persons of African ancestry are at an increased risk for developing Open Angle Glaucoma. Conversely, persons of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian descent are more prone to develop Angle Closure Glaucoma.
• Persons with cardiovascular disease or conditions resulting in insufficient blood flow to the eye are at an increased risk for developing glaucoma.
• Obesity has been identified as a possible risk factor associated with glaucoma.