How do family history and African ancestry affect the risk of glaucoma?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

eye disease An ophthalmologist performing LASIK eye surgery.

Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of glaucoma. Research indicates that individuals with a family history of the disease are at a higher risk of developing it compared to the general population.1

Furthermore, ancestry is a key demographic factor; individuals of African descent are not only more likely to develop glaucoma but also tend to experience more severe manifestations of the disease. Because vision loss caused by glaucoma is irreversible, early diagnosis through regular screening is essential for those with these identified risk factors.1