Epidemiology

The number of people affected by glaucoma in the world is approximately 45 million. One third are from primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).[2] Half of cases leading to blindness are estimated to result from PACG.[3]

The prevalence of PACG varies among different racial and ethnic groups. The highest rates are reported in Inuit and Asian populations, and lowest rates are reported in African and European populations.[4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] It is estimated that all forms of PACG account for about 10% of glaucoma cases in the US, but up to 50% of glaucoma cases in Asian populations. Among the white population in the US and Europe the estimated prevalence of PACG is 0.04% to 0.4%.[14][15] The prevalence of PACG in the Inuit population is estimated at 2.65% to 4.8%.[10][11][12][13]

Women are more likely to develop ACG than men.[16] ACG usually develops in individuals older than 50 years.[17]

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