The Value of Annual Glaucoma Screening for High-Risk Adults Ages 60 to 80

Glaucoma will increase in significance as a public health problem over the next three decades as the size of the aging US population grows more significant. Because glaucoma is more prevalent among African-Americans and Hispanics, and these groups will soon outnumber Caucasians. Therefore, it is even more imperative that a referral for screening protocol for high-risk groups be implemented as the standard of care. At least half of those with glaucoma do not know they have it, and the impact on the quality of life for those whose glaucoma progresses to visual impairment or blindness is significant. Without screening, glaucoma is likely to burden many families, particularly the underserved and society, unduly. Education for the public, those at increased risk, and their physicians about glaucoma, the importance of objective screening, and early treatment even for those with no symptoms will be critical toward the success of any screening protocol.