Systemic Risk Factors for Primary Open Angle Glaucoma in the African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study (ADAGES) and Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma Study (DIGS).

As in other studies, age, family history of glaucoma and IOP were strongly related to POAG risk. There is also a suggested role for vascular risk factors such as blood pressure and perfusion pressure. Blood pressure control could be important for ocular health due to it's relationship to IOP and regular eye screenings would be advised, especially in older individuals and in patients of African descent. We conclude that vascular factors are not the sole indicators of POAG and that many other risk factors act synergistically to contribute to glaucomatous optic nerve damage. Continued studies should be conducted to further elucidate information about other risk factors for POAG