By Staff Reports
Researchers and clinicians at the Dean McGee Eye Institute (DMEI) are trying to unravel the puzzle of why First Americans seem to have a higher incidence of the eye disease glaucoma and why native people additionally seem to suffer a more aggressive and alarming form of the disorder.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world. Glaucoma damages the optic nerve when intraocular pressure increases in the eye often from so-called aqueous humor fluids that build up abnormally or don’t properly drain. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to saving the optic nerve.
Ophthalmologist and researcher Dr. Ben Harvey is directing a team examining patients in the clinic and using Oklahoma data, both past and present, to put together a picture of the prevalence, severity and progression of glaucoma among First Americans. His team of researchers at the Dean McGee Eye Institute are trying to identify the prevalence of the disease specifically among the state’s Native American populations.
“We believe the numbers of First Americans with glaucoma are markedly higher than currently reported particularly in the early stages of the disease when treatment is the most effective. We theorize and want to scientifically confirm this dangerous late diagnosis trend can explain why glaucoma is more aggressive and damaging in this population. Ultimately, we hope our research confirms our theories regarding the prevalence and severity of glaucoma and serves as best science to encourage First American’s and their primary care providers to seek ophthalmologic care much earlier and on a routine basis,” noted Dr. Harvey.
“I am a senior citizen of the Navajo tribe. My vision, several years ago, I couldn’t see like I used to. That’s because they found out I had glaucoma,” said 89-year-old Patricia Hawk from El Reno, Oklahoma. “The medications I’m getting from DMEI for treatment of the glaucoma are really helping. I’m just grateful I still can see and get around.”
Current treatments for glaucoma are customized to each patient – it is therefore vital to understand a patient’s history, genetics, culture and environment in determining the ideal treatment. It is estimated about six percent of Native American’s have glaucoma, and an estimated half of those with glaucoma are unaware they have it.
“My advice to you is go have your eyes checked!” continued Ms. Hawk. “Maybe go once a year, have your eyes tested. You will be glad you did. I did and I’m grateful I can see.”
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Ophthalmologists recommend glaucoma screenings begin around the age of 40. Everyone age 18 and older should maintain regular eye exams.