WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 There are more than 4.2 million U.S. adults who have glaucoma, but only half know it, according to the National Institutes of Health.The second-leading cause of blindness in the world, glaucoma accounts for 12 percent of blindness in the United States, and with baby boomers aging, the number of people with glaucoma is expected to double in the next decade.The best defense against glaucoma is detecting it early, advises Dr. Andrew Iwach, spokesman for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.Knowing you have glaucoma is one of the most important factors in treating the disease and preventing vision loss, says Iwach. So many people are losing their sight and simply do not realize it. Glaucoma is a treatable disease. Vision loss can be minimized. Those who are potentially at risk must take the first step and get an eye exam.Those at high risk for glaucoma include:-- African-Americans older than 40.-- Hispanics.-- People with a family history of glaucoma.-- Anybody older than 60.-- People with adverse health conditions, such as diabetes.-- Those who have experienced a serious eye injury.-- Those who are severely nearsighted.Copyright 2007 by UPI
