My Glaucoma Resource Center Brought to you by Alcon
"Telling my kids
that glaucoma can run in the family helped them - and me."
Glaucoma and Heredity - Truths and myths
Glaucoma doesn't just affect individuals. It affects families. That can be a scary thought. After all, if your mom or dad (or brother or sister) has glaucoma, you could be at risk. If you have children, they could be at risk. Take a first step in protecting yourself and your family by learning the truth about glaucoma and heredity.

Myth: Glaucoma does not run in families.

The Glaucoma Research Foundation reports that you are 4 to 9 times more likely to get glaucoma if there’s a history of it in your immediate family. Those may seem like daunting odds, but don't be discouraged. By taking action early, you can fight back against glaucoma.

Truth: African-Americans are at higher risk than Caucasians.

If you are African-American, it's especially important to keep a watchful eye on glaucoma. More than 750,000 African-Americans in the United States have glaucoma. Half are unaware of it. Among African-Americans, studies show that glaucoma is:
  • Five times more likely to occur in African-Americans than in Caucasians.
  • About four times more likely to cause blindness in African-Americans than in Caucasians.
  • Fifteen times more likely to cause blindness in African-Americans between the ages of 45-64 than in Caucasians of the same age group.
Glaucoma and Heredity (continued)

Truth: Everyone in your family should get tested.

If there's been a diagnosis of glaucoma in your family, think of it as a warning sign for your whole family – and a wake-up call. Encourage your family members to have a complete eye exam with an eye care professional every year or two after the age of 35.

Myth: Exercise does not affect eye pressure.

There is some evidence that you may be able to lower high eye pressure with regular aerobic exercise. Race-walking, jogging, swimming, and bicycling have been shown to help reduce IOP by as much as 20 percent if they're done for at least forty minutes three times a week. As when beginning any exercise program, ask your doctor first. (Some forms of glaucoma won't be affected by exercise while with others, IOP may increase.) And continue to follow your doctor's instructions. There is no substitute for medical care or treatment.
Do Not Delete This Page ~ Hidden ~ Needed For Sliding Horizontal