Prevalence of open-angle glaucoma in Iceland: Reykjavik Eye Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and pseudoexfoliation (PEX) are leading causes of vision loss.
• Understanding the prevalence and risk factors for OAG and PEX is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Previous studies have not fully elucidated the age- and sex-specific prevalence of OAG subsuming PEX in specific populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the age- and sex-specific prevalence of open-angle glaucoma (OAG), including pseudoexfoliation (PEX), in Reykjavik.
• To analyze the association between age and the prevalence of OAG and PEX.

Main Methods:

• The Reykjavik Eye Study included participants aged 50 years and older.
• Glaucoma classification involved optic nerve stereophotograph reading, visual field testing, and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements.
• Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) was diagnosed based on characteristic lens capsule findings.

Main Results:

• The minimum prevalence of OAG in individuals 50 years and older was 4.0%, with PEX accounting for 10.3%.
• A significant association was found between increasing age and the prevalence of both OAG (OR=1.10/year) and PEX (OR=1.10/year).
• Of the 42 individuals with OAG, 31.0% also had PEX.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of both OAG and PEX demonstrates a substantial annual increase of approximately 10% in individuals aged 50 and older.
• These findings highlight the growing public health burden of glaucoma and PEX in aging populations.
• Targeted screening and early intervention strategies may be necessary for older adults at risk.