Glaucoma Disparities in the Hispanic Population

The Hispanic population is the United States’ largest minority and one of the fastest growing as well. In the next 30 to 40 years, the proportion of open-angle glaucoma patients represented by Hispanics is expected to dramatically rise. Here we examine the unique considerations and challenges of glaucoma care in this population, from demographics to risk factors to treatments and outcomes. Currently, access to care and the under-diagnosis of glaucoma in this population are significant issues that look only to grow in significance as the glaucoma burden continues to grow. Additionally, utilization of medical and surgical therapy remains lower in Hispanics than in many other ethnic groups. Understanding and proactively addressing the unique challenges in the screening and treatment of Hispanics will be of utmost importance to providing effective care to this population.