Glaucoma is a silent thief of sight, affecting over 76 million people globally. Often asymptomatic in its early stages, glaucoma progresses gradually, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Without early detection, patients may not realize they have the disease until significant vision loss has occurred.
AI is emerging as a powerful ally in the fight against glaucoma. AI-driven diagnostic tools analyze retinal images to detect subtle changes in the optic nerve that may signal early-stage glaucoma. These tools can assess structural damage, measure intraocular pressure trends, and provide predictive insights into disease progression.
One of the significant advantages of AI is its ability to make screening accessible beyond specialized eye clinics. Solutions like Airdoc enable primary care providers and optometrists to incorporate glaucoma screening into routine checkups, ensuring that more patients receive early diagnoses.
As AI continues to integrate into ophthalmology, it holds the potential to prevent blindness for millions worldwide by identifying glaucoma early and ensuring patients receive timely treatment.