Abstract

Glaucoma is the commonest cause of blindness worldwide. The estimated number of people blind from glaucoma is 4.5 million. The prevalence of glaucoma in the Estonian population among people aged 50 years and older is 16.5%, which is similar to the corresponding figure in Finland and Sweden. Glaucoma is defined as specific glaucomatous optic nerve neuropathy associated with changes in the visual field. Only evidence-based treatment, using medical, laser and surgical therapies, can lower intraocular pressure.