Glaucoma, a potentially serious eye condition that can lead to disability and/or permanent blindness, continues to be a growing health concern in the United States. Understanding who is most affected by glaucoma is essential for developing public health strategies and ensuring at-risk groups receive the care they need. A recent study sheds light on the prevalence of glaucoma in the U.S. and how it affects people across different regions, races, and age groups.*

How Commonplace is Glaucoma?

The study found that approximately 4.22 million Americans, or about 1.62% of adults, had glaucoma in 2022. Within this group, 1.49 million people (0.57% of adults) experienced advanced glaucoma, which directly affects eyesight. Here are a few important findings:

• The prevalence (occurrence) of glaucoma was higher among Black adults (3.15%) compared to White adults (1.42%).
• Glaucoma prevalence varied by state, with Mississippi showing the highest rate (1.95%) and Utah the lowest (1.11%).
• People aged 40 and older showed a higher prevalence of glaucoma (2.56%) compared to younger adults.

This is actually a long-standing trend. A study from 2006 showed that:

• 3.4% of White participants and 5.7% of Black participants aged 73 and 74 years had glaucoma 
• These numbers increased to 9.4% (White) and 23.2% (Black) in people aged 75 and older.

Where the Numbers Come From and Why They Matter 

The researchers used a variety of sources, including the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Medicare claims, commercial insurance records, and past eye disease studies. 

Their results emphasize the need for targeted public health interventions to address glaucoma, especially in regions and communities most affected. 

With Black and older individuals, and residents of certain states, facing a higher risk, these findings can:

• Help shape local health programs, 
• Improve screening efforts, and 
• Guide resource allocation. 

Tracking these trends over time will be critical to prevent blindness and manage the growing burden of glaucoma in the U.S.

*Ehrlich, J. R., Burke-Conte, Z., Wittenborn, J. S., et al. (2024, October 17). Prevalence of Glaucoma Among US Adults in 2022. JAMA Ophthalmology. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/article-abstract/2824476. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.3884  

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