My Relative has Glaucoma
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Those with a direct relative (child, sibling, or parent) with glaucoma have a much higher risk of developing glaucoma – 1 in 4 may develop glaucoma in their life time. This is because in many cases, glaucoma is an inherited (genetic) disease that is passed on within families. Regular eye examinations for this group should commence at least 10 years earlier than the age of onset of glaucoma in their affected relative. Early detection of glaucoma means preventing vision loss.
In the general population, 2-3% of people will develop glaucoma in their lifetime. Onset is usually subtle – someone may only become aware that their vision is worsening after a considerable amount of vision has already been lost. This makes an eye examination especially important in detecting early disease. Early detection of glaucoma is extremely important – treatment can’t restore lost vision, but it can halt or slow further vision loss.
Click here to learn more about the potentially blinding eye disease: Glaucoma
Some people have a higher risk, particularly those who:
Research shows that you have an increased risk if you have a family member with glaucoma – to learn more read the following 2 articles!
Those with a direct relative with glaucoma should:
If you have a family member with glaucoma, it is important you visit an eye health professional to have an optic nerve check.
Click here to find an eye health professional near you!
Glaucoma Australia has been educating Australians about glaucoma for almost 30 years – our Mission is to Eliminate Glaucoma Blindness. Help us to help your family.