How can you reduce your risk of developing glaucoma?

People who are at the highest risk of developing glaucoma may benefit from early treatment of ocular hypertension. Ocular hypertension is high pressure within the eye and is a leading risk factor for the development of the most common form of glaucoma. Ocular hypertension is the only risk factor that is adjustable. Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and their contemporaries in the Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study Group looked at the safety and effectiveness of earlier vs. later treatment in preventing glaucoma in people who had high intraocular pressure. It was determined that lowering intraocular pressure could delay or prevent the beginning of glaucoma although the best time to start treatment has not been determined. Individuals who are at a lower risk for developing glaucoma may not really benefit from the early treatment of intraocular pressure and can actually be monitored over less frequent intervals than their high risk counterparts. It was determined that physicians need to consider the patient's age and overall health when determining if early treatment is the best course of action.* Andrea Schumann Staff Writer