Dr. Edgar Leuenberger, glaucoma specialist at Asian Eye Institute, encourages patients to get a comprehensive eye examWith the observation of World Glaucoma Week this month, we are again reminded of the irreparable damage that comes with the “silent thief of sight.” Glaucoma remains a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.

“Glaucoma doesn’t have signs or symptoms as it starts, so most glaucoma patients may not notice a change in vision until it is in the advanced stage,” Asian Eye Institute glaucoma specialist Dr. Edgar Leuenberger notes. “And since blindness caused by glaucoma is permanent, we urge patients to get a comprehensive eye exam every year.”

It remains a significant public health issue worldwide. After all, according to a study published in PubMed Central (PMC), it is the second leading cause of blindness, right behind cataract. Awareness and early detection are still substantial hurdles to combat the prevalence of glaucoma among our closest family and friends. It takes proper education and routine eye exams to prevent glaucoma-related blindness in the Philippines and beyond.

Glaucoma by the numbers

Here’s a rundown of important glaucoma data in the world today:

• More than 70 million people suffer from glaucoma, with nearly half residing in Asia, as indicated in a study published in PMC.
• In the Philippines, approximately 300,000 individuals suffer from glaucoma, accounting for 0.27% of the population, as reported by the Philippine Eye Research Institute.
• East Asians are said to experience the highest rate of blindness in the world, courtesy of the most common types of glaucoma, an article published on https://glaucoma.org/noted.
• An estimated more than 50% of those affected are unaware they have the disease, per a report on the American Academy of Ophthalmology site.
• Unfortunately, among glaucoma patients who receive timely intervention, 10% of them experience vision loss, according to a report on https://weillcornell.org/.

Debunking myths about glaucoma

For one reason or another, several myths have become popular over the years.

Those with normal blood pressure cannot have high eye pressure. 

Blood pressure and eye pressure are independent of each other. Having your blood pressure under control does not mean that eye pressure is controlled.

How can I develop glaucoma if I have 20/20 vision? 

Sure, 20/20 vision is great, but it is no assurance against glaucoma. The disease generally affects peripheral vision first before central vision.

Nobody in my family has ever had glaucoma. How can I possibly get it? 

While family history has been proven to increase the risk for such, plenty of patients have been diagnosed without them ever having other known relatives with glaucoma. Risk factors include age, ethnicity, and other medical conditions.

Can young people be at risk for glaucoma?

Keep in mind that children can also get glaucoma. Congenital glaucoma or infantile glaucoma is caused by abnormal eye development and is often diagnosed at birth. Meanwhile, juvenile glaucoma can happen at any time during childhood.

I’ve always had good vision. Should I still worry about glaucoma?

Yes, you should. Because glaucoma primarily affects our side vision, most people don’t notice changes to their eyesight until significant damage occurs.

Glaucoma is curable. Unfortunately, there isn’t one set cure for glaucoma. You may, however, manage the condition with medication, laser treatment or surgery to slow down progression and protect vision.

Annual comprehensiveeyeexaminations are still the best bet against glaucoma-inducedvisionloss.Schedule an appointment with Asian Eye specialists as soon as possible at https://asianeyeinstitute.com/booknow/.Contact them at (02) 8-898- 2020 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

(Story by:Aizel Maquimot)