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Don’t Sleep
on Sight

Why Eye Health Matters,
Especially If You Have Prediabetes
or Are Living with Type 2 Diabetes

The Connection You Can’t Ignore

Diabetes and prediabetes can all impact your risk of developing glaucoma which is the second leading cause of blindness among Black Americans, and it can develop with no early warning signs. Since glaucoma develops slowly and without pain, regular checkups can help protect your sight.

What the Numbers Tell Us

Black adults are up to 5 times more likely to develop glaucoma than others.
It often appears 10 years earlier and progresses faster in Black communities.
Siblings of those with glaucoma may be 10 times more likely to develop it.

What to Do Now

Schedule a full eye exam. Ask your doctor about a glaucoma screening if you’re over 35.
Know your risks. Diabetes, family history, and age all increase your chances.

Living with Glaucoma

Understanding Glaucoma and Its Impact on Black Communities

Black Americans are at a significantly higher risk for glaucoma and vision loss, but the reasons why remain unclear. What research does show is that genetics play a key role, making early detection and consistent treatment critical for protecting sight.

Large studies such as the Baltimore Eye Survey and the Barbados Eye Study have explored how glaucoma affects Black populations. Insights from these and other research efforts continue to shape our understanding of risk factors and guide the development of more effective treatments for communities most at risk.

How Glaucoma Treatment Differs

While every patient’s care plan is unique, the goal of glaucoma treatment is always the same—preventing further vision loss. For Black patients, glaucoma often appears earlier and progresses more rapidly, so eye doctors may set lower target eye pressure levels to help preserve vision.

Even so, treatment must always be individualized. Each person’s diagnosis, eye pressure, and disease progression determine the best approach—not race alone.

Glaucoma Treatment from Dr. Constance Okeke

The Power of Early Diagnosis

Although more research is needed to fully understand why Black Americans face higher glaucoma risk, one fact is certain: early detection saves sight. Regular eye exams can identify glaucoma before symptoms appear, allowing for timely treatment that helps prevent permanent vision loss.

Glaucoma Runs in Families

Family history is one of the strongest risk factors. Research shows that siblings of someone diagnosed with glaucoma are about ten times more likely to develop the condition. For a 65-year-old sibling, that translates to roughly a 10% chance among white adults and nearly 20% among Black adults.
That’s why brothers and sisters of individuals with glaucoma should get regular, comprehensive eye exams—especially those that include glaucoma screening. Protecting your vision begins with knowing your risk.

Resources

American Glaucoma Society

American Glaucoma Society: Family Matters

Educates families about inherited glaucoma, offers guidance on getting screened early, and connects patients to specialists and low-cost eye care resources.

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glaucoma-research-foundation

Glaucoma Research Foundation

Offers clear, research-backed information on glaucoma, early detection, and treatment options, plus patient-friendly tools and stats.

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BrightFocus Foundation

BrightFocus Foundation

Funds cutting-edge glaucoma research and provides straightforward education for patients and caregivers looking to understand the disease.

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American Academy of Ophthalmology

American Academy of Ophthalmology

Provides doctor-reviewed information on common eye diseases, symptoms, and treatments, plus practical tips to protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy at every age.

 

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Supported by
Glaukos- ogo
Source: Glaucoma Research Foundation
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