Glaucoma refers to a group of eye disorders often associated with a dangerous buildup of internal eye pressure, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). This increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain.

If left untreated, most types of glaucoma gradually worsen and can lead to permanent visual damage and eventually blindness. The damage caused by glaucoma is usually irreversible. Because the disease often progresses silently without obvious warning signs, glaucoma is frequently referred to as the “silent blinding disease” or the “sneak thief of sight.”

Globally, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness. It is estimated that about 4.5 million people worldwide are blind due to glaucoma, and this number may increase significantly in the coming years.

One of the major concerns with glaucoma is that it often develops without symptoms in its early stages. Studies suggest that up to 50% of affected individuals in developed countries are unaware they have glaucoma, and this number may reach 90% in underdeveloped regions.

In India, glaucoma contributes to about 12.8% of total blindness and is considered the third most common cause of blindness. The prevalence of glaucoma in the country ranges between 2.6% and 4.1%. With the ageing population increasing rapidly, the number of people affected is also expected to rise.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Early detection is extremely important because glaucoma can be successfully managed if diagnosed early. While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain individuals are at higher risk and should undergo........

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