A new standard for glaucoma testing

The standard "puff" test may not be enough to detect glaucoma. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, a glaucoma exam should now include an evaluation of the optic nerve or a visual field test, in addition to a pressure test. The organization recommends individuals at high risk for developing glaucoma have a thorough eye exam every one to two years.

Those at high risk include diabetics, people over 60, relatives of people with glaucoma, African Canadians over 40 year, and those who are very nearsighted.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases with common features including excess eye pressure, damage to the optic nerve and permanent loss of peripheral vision. Glaucoma affects 300,000 Canadians, and is a leading cause of blindness.

Many cases are currently undiagnosed.