A disease that steals eyesight imperceptibly: scientists warn of a sharp increase in glaucoma
Illustrative photo: Freepik

Researchers predict that the number of glaucoma cases in the UK could increase by 60% by 2060. They warn that without proper treatment, this common eye disease can lead to blindness, so "planning and action are needed now" to ensure timely diagnosis and care.

A new analysis also showed that over a million people in the country may already have glaucoma – more than previously thought. Experts recommend that middle-aged people regularly undergo annual eye exams and conduct information campaigns to reduce the risk of late diagnosis. This was reported by writes The Independent.

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Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. It most often occurs in people over 50 and usually develops gradually over many years without noticeable symptoms.

Researchers from UCL and Moorfields Eye Hospital have reported that the number of people with glaucoma in the UK may be significantly higher than previously thought. According to new estimates, approximately 1.1 million people currently have the disease – about 3% of the population over 40 years of age. The prevalence of glaucoma is expected to increase, reaching 4% among people of African descent and 11% among those over 85 years of age.

"Previous research has estimated that half of glaucoma cases remain undiagnosed, and this figure is even higher among certain ethnic minorities, who are more likely to experience delays in diagnosis," says study author Professor Paul Foster from the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology. "Late diagnosis is associated with a higher risk of vision loss and greater treatment costs. Over 40% of glaucoma patients in the UK experience vision loss that could have been avoided with early detection and treatment, for example, with eye drops or surgery."

Symptoms of glaucoma

Glaucoma usually affects both eyes, but one may be more severely affected. Sometimes the disease can develop suddenly and cause the following symptoms:

  • severe eye pain;

  • redness of the eye;

  • sensitivity around the eyes;

  • seeing rainbow-colored halos around bright light sources;

  • blurred vision;

  • Nausea and vomiting;

  • Headache.

Similar symptoms may also occur with other conditions, including uveitis or eye injury.

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