How Often Should You Get Screened for Glaucoma? | SpecSMART Ikeja

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How Often Should You Get Screened for Glaucoma? | SpecSMART Ikeja

By Dr. Itua Enakhe (OD)

Regular glaucoma screening is crucial, especially in Nigeria where the disease is common and often detected too late. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we recommend tailored screening intervals based on age and risk factors to protect your vision.

How Often Should You Get Screened for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in Nigeria, and early detection is key. Screening frequency depends on your age and risk profile.

Screening Intervals

  • Under 40

    • No risk factors: Baseline exam at age 40, then every 5–10 years.

    • High risk (African descent/family history): Every 2–4 years.

  • Ages 40–54

    • General population: Every 2–4 years.

    • High risk: Every 1–3 years.

  • Ages 55–64

    • General population: Every 1–3 years.

    • High risk: Every 1–2 years.

  • Ages 65 and older

    • All patients: Every 1–2 years.

Factors That Increase Screening Frequency

  • Family history of glaucoma.

  • High intraocular pressure (IOP).

  • Diabetes or hypertension.

  • Previous eye trauma.

  • Long-term steroid use.

What Happens During a Glaucoma Screening?

A comprehensive glaucoma screening at SpecSMART Eye Clinic includes:

Test Name What it Measures Why it Matters
Tonometry Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Identifies high eye pressure
Ophthalmoscopy Optic Nerve Appearance Detects nerve damage
Visual Field Test Peripheral Vision Finds blind spots
Pachymetry Corneal Thickness Thinner corneas are a risk factor
OCT Scan Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer High-resolution nerve tissue mapping


The Value of Advanced Technology

At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we use Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Digital Fundus Photography to detect changes years before traditional tests. Early intervention can preserve your vision for a lifetime.

FAQs

Q: When should I start getting screened for glaucoma?
A: Baseline at age 40, or earlier if you have risk factors.

Q: What are the risk factors for glaucoma?
A: African descent, family history, high IOP, diabetes, hypertension, previous eye trauma, and long-term steroid use.

Q: How long does a glaucoma screening take?
A: About 30 minutes at our clinics.

📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link road, Ikeja.
📞 0703 839 1197

📍Learn More

Our 5 steps eye test process explained in more detail.

References

  • Adekoya, B. J., et al. (2015). Prevalence and types of glaucoma among an indigenous African population in Southwestern Nigeria. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). (2024). Frequency of Ocular Examination Curriculum.

  • Kyari, F., et al. (2015). The Nigeria National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey.

  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). World Report on Vision: Glaucoma Management in Sub-Saharan Africa.