Glaucoma Awareness Month 2026 : Raising Awareness to Prioritise Eye Health

Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma typically develops slowly and without warning, gradually stealing peripheral vision before most people even realise something is wrong. By the time symptoms become noticeable, significant and irreversible damage has already occurred. To raise awareness about this preventable cause of blindness and encourage people to prioritise their eye health, every year, the month of January is observed as Glaucoma Awareness Month. In line with this important observance, this blog will cover everything you need to know about glaucoma, including who’s at risk, how it’s detected, what warning signs to watch for, and most importantly, the steps you can take today to protect your vision. But first, let us understand the history and significance of the initiative.

History and Purpose of Glaucoma Awareness Month

Glaucoma Awareness Month is observed every January to draw attention to glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide. The initiative began in 2011, led by the National Eye Institute (NEI) and allied health organisations to emphasise the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma. Since then, January has served as a dedicated time each year for eye care professionals, health advocates, and the public to focus on glaucoma education and eye health.

The core purpose of Glaucoma Awareness Month is to prevent vision loss by increasing public understanding of glaucoma’s risks, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. Because glaucoma often develops with little or no noticeable symptoms, many people remain unaware they have it until significant vision loss has occurred. By raising awareness, the campaign encourages regular eye exams, supports early diagnosis, and highlights preventive measures that can help protect eyesight.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for carrying visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), although some forms of glaucoma can occur even with normal eye pressure. Over time, glaucoma can cause gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness.

What are the Types of Glaucoma?

The two main types of glaucoma include:

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)

This is the most common form, accounting for about 90% of all glaucoma cases. It develops slowly when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time, causing pressure to gradually build up. Because it progresses so slowly and painlessly, many people don’t notice any changes until substantial vision loss has occurred.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This less common but more urgent form occurs when the iris bulges forward and blocks the drainage angle formed by the cornea and iris. This can happen suddenly (acute angle-closure) or gradually (chronic angle-closure). Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

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Who is at Risk?

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition:

• Age: Risk increases after the age of 40, and people over 60 are at even higher risk. Early screening becomes particularly important as we age.
• Family history: Having a parent, sibling, or close relative with glaucoma significantly increases your chances, as genetics can play a key role in the disease.
• Medical conditions: Diabetes and hypertension can affect the blood vessels in the eyes, contributing to optic nerve damage.
• Ethnicity: People of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent are more susceptible to certain types of glaucoma, and some groups may develop the disease at a younger age.
• Eye injuries or surgeries: Past trauma, eye injuries, or previous eye surgeries can make the eyes more vulnerable to glaucoma.
• Prolonged use of certain medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids or other eye medications may increase intraocular pressure and risk of glaucoma.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Glaucoma often develops gradually, and many people may not notice any changes in vision in the early stages. Being aware of the warning signs can help detect the condition early:

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision: Often the first sign, usually unnoticed until the condition has progressed.
• Tunnel vision: In advanced stages, vision may narrow, making it difficult to see objects on the sides.
• Eye pain or discomfort: Sudden or severe eye pain can indicate angle-closure glaucoma.
• Blurred or hazy vision: Objects may appear less sharp, particularly in dim light.
• Seeing halos around lights: Glare or rainbow-colored rings may appear around lights.
• Redness in the eye: Can accompany pain, especially in acute cases.
• Headaches or nausea: Sometimes occur alongside sudden increases in eye pressure (mainly in angle-closure glaucoma).

Because these symptoms can appear late or intermittently, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially for those at higher risk

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Treatment Options

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but with timely diagnosis and proper management, further vision loss can often be prevented. The approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, as well as individual patient factors. Common treatment options include:

1. Medications (Eye Drops or Oral Medicines)

Medications are often the first step in managing glaucoma. Eye drops either reduce the production of fluid in the eye or help increase its drainage, lowering intraocular pressure. Some patients may also require oral medications if eye drops alone are not sufficient. Consistent use as prescribed is critical, as missing doses can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of vision damage.

2. Laser Therapy

Laser treatments are minimally invasive procedures that help improve fluid drainage or decrease fluid production within the eye. Common types include:

• Laser trabeculoplasty: Used mainly for open-angle glaucoma to improve drainage through the eye’s trabecular meshwork.
• Laser iridotomy: Often used for angle-closure glaucoma to create a small opening in the iris, allowing fluid to flow more freely.
  Laser therapy can delay or reduce the need for more invasive surgical interventions.

3. Conventional Surgery

When medications or laser treatments are insufficient, conventional surgery may be recommended. Procedures such as trabeculectomy or drainage device implantation create new pathways for fluid to exit the eye, reducing intraocular pressure. Surgery is generally considered when there is progressive vision loss despite other treatments.

4. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

MIGS procedures have gained popularity in recent years due to their safer profile and quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery. These procedures are suitable for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma and aim to lower eye pressure with less tissue disruption and fewer complications.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

Although glaucoma cannot be completely prevented, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss. Early detection and healthy eye habits are key. Here are ways to protect your eyes:

• Regular Eye Exams: Comprehensive eye check-ups are the most effective way to detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear. Adults over 40, and especially those with risk factors, should schedule exams at least once every 1–2 years.
• Know Your Family History: Understanding whether glaucoma runs in your family can help you and your eye doctor take preventive measures.
• Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels: Conditions like hypertension and diabetes increase the risk of glaucoma. Managing these conditions supports overall eye health.
• Protect Your Eyes: Use safety eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury. Eye trauma can increase vulnerability to glaucoma.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoiding smoking can promote better eye health.
• Adhere to Prescribed Medications: If you are already being treated for glaucoma or other eye conditions, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to maintain eye pressure within a safe range.

While these steps cannot guarantee prevention, combining regular check-ups with lifestyle and medical precautions greatly increases the chances of protecting vision and catching glaucoma early.

Final Words

Glaucoma Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder that protecting your vision starts with awareness and action. This January, take a moment to reflect on when you last had a comprehensive eye examination. If it’s been more than a year or if you’ve never had one, now is the time to prioritise your eye health. At Graphic Era Hospital, our experienced ophthalmologists are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to detect glaucoma in its earliest stages. Schedule your comprehensive eye examination at Graphic Era Hospital today by calling at 1800 889 7351.