Over a Million People Have Glaucoma and Don’t Know It

Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. According to the CDC, over 3 million people in the U.S. are living with this disease, yet only half are aware of it. The reason? Glaucoma symptoms are often subtle and develop gradually.

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month

While age is a known risk factor, glaucoma is not solely a concern for older adults. Other risk factors, as noted by the American Optometric Association, include:

• Race: African Americans, individuals of Asian descent, and Native Alaskans are at higher risk.
• Family History: A family history of glaucoma significantly increases your chances of developing the disease.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can contribute to glaucoma risk.
• Eye Injuries: Physical trauma to the eye may also lead to glaucoma.

According to the CDC, many people remain unaware of their condition because glaucoma is often painless, and visual symptoms typically appear only in the later stages of the disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma? View this article from VSP, our vision insurance provider, for Everything You Need to Know About Glaucoma         

Stay informed about HR and wellness updates:

• HR News & Benefits Insights: Follow the HR Blog.
• Employee Wellness: Stay updated with the Wellness Blog.