What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the bundle of nerve fibers that carries information from the eye to the brain. It can lead to vision loss and blindness. Although there is no cure, medications and surgery can help slow the disease’s progression. Learn about the signs and symptoms of glaucoma, treatments, prevention techniques, and ways to care for yourself or a loved one.
Program Impact
Accelerating Research Toward a Cure
National Glaucoma Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, funds a wide range of innovative scientific approaches that explore the root causes of this eye disease.
With our funding, scientists around the world are developing, testing, and investigating hundreds of ideas to prevent, treat, and cure glaucoma.
We’ve invested nearly $51 million in glaucoma research to date across 496 research grants.
Understanding Glaucoma
Types of Glaucoma
There are two main forms of glaucoma: open-angle and angle-closure. There are also several other less common forms of this eye disease, including normal-tension, childhood, and secondary glaucoma.
The most common types of glaucoma often have no symptoms until irreversible damage to the eye has already occurred and vision loss has begun. That’s why glaucoma is sometimes called the “sneak thief of sight,” and why regular screening and early detection are so important.
Learn about the different types of glaucoma:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common form, affecting approximately 70-90% of people with the disease, open-angle glaucoma is a chronic, slowly progressing condition that has few or no symptoms until peripheral vision loss has already begun. In the U.S., this type impacts African American and Hispanic populations at higher rates than other ethnicities.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Secondary Glaucoma
How Glaucoma Affects Vision
How Open-Angle Glaucoma May Affect Vision
Who is at Risk of Developing Glaucoma?
The most common types of glaucoma have completely different symptoms. However, there are some general risk factors to keep in mind, including:
- High eye pressure
- Family history of glaucoma
- Being age 40 and older for African Americans
- Being age 60 and older, particularly for Hispanics/Latinos
Browse other potential risk factors and how to lower your risk.
By The Numbers
Facts & Figures
3 Million+ Americans
More than three million Americans aged 40 and older are living with glaucoma, 2.7 million of whom are affected by its most common type, open-angle glaucoma.
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, affecting 80 million people.
Eye Pressure: A Major Risk Factor
Eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma, but not every person with increased eye pressure will develop glaucoma. Glaucoma can even develop without increased eye pressure.
Early Detection Can Protect Vision
Currently, there is no cure for glaucoma; however, early detection and treatment can slow the progression of the disease and protect remaining vision.
Resources
Explore Helpful Resources & Information
Can Non-Drug Interventions Reduce Glaucoma Risk?
Can lifestyle changes help reduce glaucoma risk? Join us as glaucoma specialist Jullia A. Rosdahl, MD, PhD, discusses how diet, exercise, sleep, and other non-drug interventions may impact eye pressure and overall eye health. Learn about the latest research on nutrition, supplements, and daily habits that could support vision preservation.
Gathering Support For Your Glaucoma Diagnosis
Join Dr. Lawrence S. Geyman as he outlines effective ways to find support for your glaucoma diagnosis.
Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration: Can You Be Diagnosed With Both?
Learn about the similarities and differences between these two vision diseases, whether someone can develop both conditions at the same time, and how to reduce your risk.
Glaucoma Explained: Types, Risk Factors, and Treatments
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jaehong Han about the different types of glaucoma, including open-angle, angle-closure, normal-tension, and more, discussing who is most affected by each and how treatments can vary.
Can AI Prevent Vision Loss From Glaucoma?
What you need to know about how artificial intelligence could improve glaucoma detection, treatment, and care.
Glaucoma 101: Exploring the Science Behind This Sight-Stealing Disease
Listen to Dr. Qi N. Cui as she explains the science behind glaucoma, a leading cause of vision loss.
Top Holiday Travel Tips for People with Low Vision
An expert shares must-know travel strategies and essential apps for a successful trip with low vision.
Can Glaucoma Be Prevented? The Science Behind Risk Reduction
Join us for a conversation with Dr. Rebecca Sarran, a leading glaucoma specialist, as she discusses the latest research on reducing the risk of glaucoma.
Glaucoma Treatments in 2024
A glaucoma specialist discussed the diverse landscape of glaucoma treatments, including newly approved medications.
Together, We Can Stop Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Your donation today helps fund critical research that could lead to treatments to preserve sight, provide vital information to the public, and end this devastating disease.
