Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Glaucoma Prevalence and Outcomes

Grade XI, Gems and Genesis International School, India 380015

Abstract

Glaucoma, often termed the “silent thief of sight,” is a progressive optic neuropathy that causes irreversible vision loss, typically resulting from damage to the optic nerve due to elevated intraocular pressure. Because the disease advances gradually and without early symptoms, it often remains undetected until significant visual impairment has occurred. Although glaucoma can affect individuals of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, disparities in its prevalence and outcomes are evident. People of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent experience higher rates of glaucoma and poorer visual outcomes compared to White populations. These differences extend beyond biological susceptibility and are influenced by social determinants such as unequal access to healthcare, limited screening programs, socioeconomic barriers, and low disease awareness. This article examines how racial and ethnic disparities shape global patterns of glaucoma incidence and outcomes. Framing glaucoma as not only a medical condition but also a public health issue linked to social inequality underscores the need for targeted interventions. Expanding access to routine eye examinations, improving public awareness, and implementing equitable screening initiatives are essential strategies to reduce disparities and prevent avoidable blindness in at-risk populations.