Archive · 21 Jan 2026
Steroid Use Linked to Rising Glaucoma Cases in India
Doctors in India are worried about the growing use of steroid medicines, which can cause a serious eye condition called glaucoma.
Glaucoma can lead to blindness if not treated early.
Many people in India already have glaucoma, but most don't know it because there are often no symptoms at first.
Steroid medicines, which are used for allergies, skin problems, and breathing issues, can increase eye pressure and cause glaucoma if used for a long time without proper medical advice.
Doctors say it's important for people, especially those over 40 or with certain health conditions, to get regular eye check-ups to catch glaucoma early.
Doctors warn that unsupervised steroid use is a major trigger for secondary glaucoma, which can cause irreversible blindness.
India has a high prevalence of glaucoma, with 12 to 13 million affected, and most cases go undetected.
Steroid-induced glaucoma is rising, particularly among those using steroid medications or eye drops without proper medical supervision.
Glaucoma often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has occurred.
Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection, especially for high-risk groups like those with diabetes, hypertension, or a history of steroid use.
- Who
- Doctors and medical experts in India
- What
- Rising cases of secondary glaucoma due to steroid use
- When
- Over the last two to three years
- Where
- India
- Why
- Unsupervised and prolonged use of steroid medications
Medical Experts
General Public
Awareness and Prevention
Medical Experts
Medical experts emphasize the importance of regular eye check-ups and proper medical supervision for steroid use to prevent glaucoma.
General Public
Many people are unaware of the risks associated with unsupervised steroid use and the importance of regular eye screenings.
- Glaucoma Prevalence in India
- 12 to 13 million people
- Global Glaucoma Prevalence
- 75 to 80 million people
- Projected Global Glaucoma Cases by 2040
- 110 million
- Undetected Glaucoma Cases in India
- 85 to 90%
- Common Age for Glaucoma Diagnosis
- Over 40 years, peaking between 50 and 70
- High-Risk Groups for Glaucoma
- Diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, high myopia, eye injury, long-term steroid use
- Recommended Screening Frequency for High-Risk Groups
- Annually
- Recommended Screening Frequency for People Above 40
- Every one to two years
