Glaucoma and race: a case for screening in Connecticut

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Genetics

Background:

• Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) disproportionately affects Black individuals.
• POAG is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the Black population.
• Significant numbers of undiagnosed POAG cases exist within the Black community.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on the relationship between primary open-angle glaucoma and race.
• To highlight the increased prevalence and severity of POAG in Black individuals.
• To assess the potential benefits of glaucoma screening for the Black population in Connecticut.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on primary open-angle glaucoma and race.
• Analysis of epidemiological data regarding glaucoma prevalence and severity across racial groups.
• Evaluation of the impact of new screening technologies on glaucoma detection.

Main Results:

• Strong evidence indicates a significantly higher prevalence of POAG in Black individuals compared to other racial groups.
• Black patients with POAG tend to present with a more severe clinical course.
• An estimated 14,000-21,000 Black residents in Connecticut have glaucoma, with up to 50% potentially undiagnosed.

Conclusions:

• Glaucoma screening is crucial for the Black population due to higher disease prevalence and severity.
• Cost-effective screening technologies can improve early detection rates.
• Targeted screening initiatives are recommended for the Black population in Connecticut to mitigate vision loss.