■ The earlier in life individuals develop type 2 diabetes or hypertension, the earlier they are likely to develop primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), researchers from UT Southwestern reported in a recent study. The findings, published in Clinical Ophthalmology, could lead to better screening protocols for POAG, which accounts for up to 90% of all cases of glaucoma, the researchers said.

Researchers collected medical record data from 389 POAG patients. Using statistical modeling they found the age of type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension diagnosis to be significantly linked with the onset of POAG — the earlier patients presented with either or both of these conditions, the earlier they tended to develop POAG.

If these connections are confirmed, the researchers noted, type 2 diabetes and hypertension could be added to the list of factors that can trigger POAG screening — including a family history of POAG, elevated IOP, and Black race — and lead to earlier diagnosis of POAG, preserving patients’ vision and quality of life.