Today, nearly 3 million people over the age of 40 have open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of glaucoma. This number represents a 22% increase since 2002. So, what you want to know is “Am I at risk?” The simple answer is YES. Everyone is at risk for glaucoma. It is not just an “older person’s disease,” as we hear so often. But, if glaucoma is caught early, it is very manageable and vision loss can be minimized…IF it is caught early. So, when was your last eye exam?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends that people between the ages of three and 39 should have their eyes examined every couple of years. Then, at the age of 40, everyone should have a baseline eye disease screening. Based on the results of the initial screening, an ophthalmologist will prescribe the necessary intervals for follow-up exams. Seniors – over the age of 65 – should have complete eye exams every one to two years.
‘Tis Better to Give (to Glaucoma Research) Than to Receive
If you were unaware of the risk of glaucoma, you are not alone. This is one of the reasons The Polakoff Foundation is committed to raising public awareness. But they can’t do it alone. With your help, The Polakoff Foundation hopes to increase awareness, help patients preserve their vision, and find a cure.
Click Here to donate! ‘Tis the season!
Glaucoma Screenings from Anne Arundel Eye Center
The Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles and his staff have helped preserve thousands of patients’ vision. They can help you too. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, Anne Arundel Eyes Center’s state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor,” said Dr. Boles.
If you have any questions about Glaucoma Research or wish to schedule an appointment with Anne Arundel Eye Center, please contact Dr. Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010 or Click Here to fill out our contact form. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
Sources:
Glaucoma Eye Drops Prevent Vision Loss — But Only if Patients Use Them, Glaucoma Research Foundation