New Study Finds Higher Prevalence of Glaucoma and Related Vision Loss than Previously Estimated

A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology suggests that glaucoma is more prevalent than previously estimated. In 2016, it was believed 2.1% of adults ages 40 years and older had glaucoma. This meta-analysis found that 1.62% of adults ages 18 and older and 2.56% of adults ages 40 years and older have glaucoma; among these groups, 0.57% and 0.91% had visually significant glaucoma, respectively.

The study, which included research collaborators across the country, the CDC, and Prevent Blindness, found substantial variation in prevalence across demographic subgroups, US states, and counties in 2022. These include:

• Black individuals are about 3 times as likely to have vision-affecting glaucoma as compared to white individuals
• Approximately one in every 180 adults have vision loss from glaucoma, with the risk increasing with age. 
• Glaucoma prevalence varies by location. In 2022, Mississippi had the highest glaucoma prevalence rate (1.95%) and Utah had the lowest (1.11%).

“Up-to-date estimates of how many people have glaucoma in a certain area are vital for addressing the problem. This kind of information is important for formulating evidence-based policy and public health solutions” Dr. Joshua Ehrlich, MD, lead author of the study, said in a Prevent Blindness press release.   

Additional factors may contribute to glaucoma development and subsequent vision loss among these high-risk patient populations such as limited access to eye care, socioeconomic insufficiency, and decreased health literacy. Glaucoma is also a progressive disease, in which early detection and treatment may prevent or delay permanent vision loss. Researchers from this study hope that these updated prevalence estimates may help better allocate resources and provide more tailored support to the patient groups most affected.

Study estimates were developed using data within CDC’s Vision and Eye Health Surveillance System (VEHSS). The VEHSS uses new and existing data sources to help health professionals, researchers, policy makers, and patients understand the scope of vision loss, eye disorders, and eye care services in the United States. This study marks the fourth dataset created by VEHSS – following vision impairment and blindness, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

“The data from the ‘Prevalence of Glaucoma Among US Adults in 2022’ study demonstrates that now, more than ever, is the time to dedicate resources to help the growing number of glaucoma patients obtain access to eye care to help save vision from the ‘Silent Thief of Sight,’” Jeff Todd, President and CEO of Prevent Blindness said in a press release.