Global glaucoma burden rising despite progress in prevention and treatment
Glaucoma remains the leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide, with the number of cases and related disability steadily increasing over the past 3 decades, according to a new analysis.
Researchers used data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study to examine trends in glaucoma-related low vision and blindness from 1990 to 2021 and projected estimates through 2050.
They found that although the total number of glaucoma cases and associated disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) has grown, mostly due to population aging and growth, the age-standardized prevalence and DALY rates have slowly declined. Researchers attribute this improvement to better screening, early diagnosis, advances in treatment, and supportive public health policies.
The highest burden observed was in African nations, particularly in Western sub-Saharan Africa. Glaucoma disproportionately affects older adults, and men experience a higher prevalence and greater overall disease burden than women.
Projections indicate that by 2050, nearly 11.8 million people could suffer from low vision or blindness due to glaucoma, accounting for more than 1.1 million DALYs. Experts emphasize the need for intensified prevention strategies and accessible treatment options to mitigate the growing global impact of glaucoma.
Reference
Si Z, Fan Y, Shen H, et al. Global, regional, and national burden of low vision and blindness due to glaucoma, 1990-2021, and projections to 2050: A systematic analysis of glaucoma. Int J Surg. 2025;doi: 10.1097/JS9.0000000000003723. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 41147722.
