WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS?

Studies have determined that the greatest factor is increased pressure inside of the eye.  This is considered only a risk factor and not absolute cause. The reason is that not everyone with increased pressures will go on to develop glaucoma.  A certain level of pressure can be normal for one person but too high for another.  Glaucoma results ONLY if the optic nerve is damaged. 

Other known risk factors include: A positive family history for glaucoma, all persons over the age of 60, especially those who are Hispanic, and African Americans over the age of 40.  Recent studies also suggest that a higher degree of nearsightedness, diabetes, a history of migraine headaches, and thinner than normal corneal thickness, may contribute to the development of glaucoma.

RISK CATEGORIES:         

• Age - Glaucoma becomes more prevalent with increased age.  Most glaucoma cases develop after age 60.  Note that glaucoma can occur at any age.

• Family History - If your parents or grand parents have glaucoma, there is a higher chance that you will have glaucoma.  Also, if your mother has glaucoma, the incidence is higher than if your father were to have glaucoma.

• Race - Hispanic and African-Americans are more suspect to develop glaucoma more commonly than other races.  The disease is often more progressive in Hispanic and African-Americans as well.

• Associated disease - Glaucoma is more common in patients with diabetes.  High blood pressure is not considered a risk factor for glaucoma.