January marks Mes de sensibilización sobre el glaucoma, a critical time to highlight the importance of preserving vision through early detection and care.
Often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma affects over 3 million Americans, yet 50% of those with glaucoma are unaware they have it, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
This blog will give you everything you need to know about Glaucoma and the options you have to access affordable healthcare to prevent it.
What To Know About Glaucoma
Según la Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, typically due to elevated intraocular pressure. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness (CDC).
Types of Glaucoma:
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, characterized by gradual vision loss.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A rarer type, marked by sudden and severe symptoms, such as eye pain and nausea.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma:
- Age: People over 60 are at higher risk (CDC).
- Family History: Genetics plays a significant role in susceptibility; having a family history increases risk by up to 2.85 times (Journal of Global Health).
- Race: Black individuals are 6 to 8 times more likely to develop glaucoma than White individuals (CDC).
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes double the likelihood of developing glaucoma (CDC).
How prevalent is glaucoma among different age groups in the United States, and what does this imply for early detection strategies?
In 2022, approximately 4.22 million people in the United States had glaucoma, with a prevalence of 1.62% among adults aged 18 years and older, 2.56% among those aged 40 years and oldery 5.2% among those aged 65 years and older (Glaucoma Research Foundation).
This increasing prevalence with age highlights the importance of regular eye examinations, especially for individuals over 40, to ensure early detection and effective management.
Prevalence in Florida:
Florida, with its large elderly population, has one of the highest rates of glaucoma in the U.S. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), approximately 120,000 Floridians are living with glaucoma, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and access to care.
Glaucoma Awareness Month: Early Detection Is Your Best Friend
Early detection is crucial in preventing vision loss caused by glaucoma. Regular eye examinations can identify glaucoma in its initial stages, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.
Benefits of Regular Eye Exams:
- Early Intervention: Detecting glaucoma early enables prompt treatment, which can slow or prevent further vision loss
- Preservation of Vision: Timely treatment helps maintain optic nerve health, safeguarding against significant damage.
Screening Recommendations: The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) provides the following guidelines for comprehensive eye examinations:
- Under 40 Years: Every 2 to 4 years.
- 40 to 54 Years: Every 1 to 3 years.
- 55 to 64 Years: Every 1 to 2 years.
- 65+ Years: Annually.
Individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of glaucoma or belonging to certain ethnic groups, may require more frequent screenings as advised by their ophthalmologist.
Regular eye examinations are essential for early detection and management of glaucoma, significantly reducing the risk of severe vision impairment.
Access to Vision Care
Taking care of your vision doesn’t have to be expensive. Health plans, like Medblue, make eye care accessible and affordable, ensuring you can prioritize your sight without worrying about excessive costs.
Affordable Membership Plans
MedBlue offers a simple, cost-effective way to manage your vision health. Membership plans start at just $59 al mes, giving you access to a range of benefits, including routine eye exams, prescription lenses, and discounts on advanced diagnostics.
For as little as $15-$25 per visit, you can get the screenings you need to detect these issues early. What’s best about this is that by paying the membership, you get access to every benefit of the plan regardless of your migrant status.
Why Have a Health Plan as an Option?
Caring for your vision is essential, but it’s equally important to consider the loved ones in your life who may be at risk. If you have family members over 40, they could be more susceptible to developing glaucoma—a condition that often goes unnoticed until vision loss has already occurred. Ensuring their access to regular screenings can make all the difference.
In this regard, a Medblue plan ensures your household has access to affordable screenings and treatment, helping to prevent delays that could lead to advanced, expensive procedures.
By investing in routine care, you can save thousands and protect the vision and quality of life of those you love.
Enrolling in Medblue today means giving your family affordable access to the care they need to protect their vision for years to come. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—act now.
