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<  MOA Press Releases Michigan Optometric Association
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Bryan Dahl
Michigan Optometric Association
 O: (517) 482-0616
bryan@themoa.org

Left Untreated, Glaucoma Can Lead to Vision Loss (Jan. 3, 2012)

According to the Michigan Optometric Association (MOA), early detection and treatment is critical to maintain healthy vision and protect the eyes from the effects of potentially blinding diseases, such as glaucoma.

Lansing, Mich. (January 3, 2012) - The leading cause of blindness in the United States, glaucoma, can strike without pain or other symptoms. Unfortunately, awareness and understanding surrounding glaucoma is relatively low. According to recent survey data*, less than 20 percent of Americans know that glaucoma primarily causes deterioration to peripheral vision, and about half of Americans incorrectly believe that glaucoma is preventable. While the disease is not preventable, it is treatable, and regular, comprehensive eye exams play a critical role in successful outcomes for patients.

According to the Michigan Optometric Association (MOA), early detection and treatment is critical to maintain healthy vision and protect the eyes from the effects of potentially blinding diseases, such as glaucoma. The MOA recommends that those who suffer from glaucoma have a dilated eye examination at least annually. More frequent exams may be needed if you notice additional changes in your vision.

"Those individuals who do not visit their eye doctor on a regular basis are putting their vision and quality of life at risk," said Dr. Julie L. McMullen, an MOA member and practicing optometrist in Kalamazoo, Mich. "Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, so early detection and treatment is important."

In general, Americans are not aware of the factors that put them most at risk for developing glaucoma. Only 16 percent of those surveyed indicated knowing that their race or ethnicity may increase their risk. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, African Americans between the ages of 45 to 65 are 14 to 17 times more likely to become blind from glaucoma than Caucasians. Other risk factors include a family history of glaucoma, being over the age of 60, or a history of severe eye trauma.

To find a doctor of optometry in your area, or for additional information on glaucoma and other issues concerning eye health, please visit www.themoa.org.   

*About the survey:
The sixth annual American Eye-Q® survey was conducted by Penn, Schoen & Berland Associates (PSB).  From May 19-23, 2011 using an online methodology, PSB interviewed 1,000 Americans 18 years and older who embodied a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population.  (Margin of error at 95 percent confidence level.)

About the Michigan Optometric Association                                                                            
The mission of the Michigan Optometric Association is to unite all licensed optometrists and be the representative voice for the profession of optometry in Michigan. The association provides education, information and other member services to assist optometrists in practicing successfully in accordance with the highest standards of patient care; works to advance the quality and accessibility of optometric services throughout the state and seeks to ensure the recognition of optometrists as the primary providers of vision and related eye health care.