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There is speculation about how much evidence there currently is to determine best screening and diagnosis methods for glaucoma. Especially for those adults who do not demonstrate any symptoms of the condition.
In the United States a Preventative Task Force has reported that screening is not guaranteed to reduce blindness or likely loss of sight. What is the best way to mass screen?
There is too little evidence to show "who" would benefit from screening in a primary care setting. When looking at the review, the task force pinpointed primary open - angle glaucoma, which roughly two and a half million Americans suffer from. Many times, patients are only being diagnosed after long term onset as this particular glaucoma is slowly progressive. As far as social grouping is concerned, those most at risk of this type are older adults and blacks.
The Task Force are trying to push the recommendation that adults without eye disease or any vision problems are screened by their G.P's or an eye care specialist so more late onset patients can be caught. They say that the health care community must try and conduct critically needed research on effective screening tests and treatments for glaucoma.