Doctors have long known that people with significant myopia (short-sightedness) are more likely to develop glaucoma. New research suggests that part of the explanation may lie in shared genes.
What the study found
The study, published in Ophthalmology Science in October 2026 and highlighted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, pooled individual data from 34,825 participants across six population-based cohorts and one high-myopia case-control study. Of these, 708 had open-angle glaucoma and 1,953 had high myopia.
- Each standard deviation increase in a myopia genetic risk score was associated with higher odds of open-angle glaucoma (odds ratio 1.18).
- Researchers identified 95 independent genetic locations associated with both conditions.
What it does not mean
This is an association. It does not mean that having glasses gives you glaucoma, and most short-sighted people will never develop it. The authors note limits as well, including that participants were predominantly of European ancestry, so we cannot assume the same size of effect in Indian patients. There is also no routine genetic test you need to request because of this study.
Why it still matters
Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, and it can be harder to spot in a highly myopic eye because the optic nerve already looks different. That is why a careful examination by an ophthalmologist is valuable.
What you can do
- Have regular examinations if you have high spectacle power, and do not assume a new pair of glasses is the same as an eye check.
- Tell your doctor about family history of glaucoma or high myopia.
- Know the tests. Assessment may include eye pressure, gonioscopy, pachymetry, an OCT scan and a visual field test.
- Stay active if your doctor agrees. A separate small observational study of 80 glaucoma patients, published in the Journal of Glaucoma, linked more physical activity with slower visual field loss. It cannot prove cause and effect, and exercise never replaces treatment.
- Keep using prescribed drops, even when your eyes feel fine.
You can read more on our glaucoma treatment page.
Getting checked in Andheri West
Divyajyoti Eye Hospital is at Jyoti Apartment, Ground Floor, opposite the 7 Bungalows Bus Depot, J.P. Road, Andheri (West), Mumbai 400053. The OPD runs Monday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM, and is closed on Sunday. Call +91-7777018301 or +91-88505 65588, or send an enquiry through our contact page.