A new local study by researchers from the Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI) and Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) may help doctors detect glaucoma, an often undiagnosed eye disease, earlier than usual. Researchers found that those with moderate to high myopia (above 300 degrees) and high eye pressure were more likely to develop primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), compared to those without myopia and high eye pressure.
Associate Professor Cheng Ching Yu, principal investigator of the study, said the findings are particularly relevant for the Asian population and Singapore, considering the local prevalence of myopia, which has been on the rise in the last two decades.
For adults with myopia, and who are found to have increased eye pressure, it may be advisable to undergo yearly comprehensive eye screenings by an ophthalmologist, says Professor Saw Seang Mei, head of the Myopia Unit at SERI and the study’s co-investigator.
Media Coverage:
- Channel NewsAsia, 10 February 2016
- TODAY, 10 February 2016