The number of adults aged 40 and over living with glaucoma in the UK is already substantially higher than earlier estimates and is projected to surge to more than 1.6 million by 2060, according to new research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.¹

The study, led by researchers from University College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital and commissioned by Glaucoma UK, combined the most recent UK census data with clinical prevalence estimates to produce updated stratified estimates of glaucoma burden across age, sex, and ethnic groups.

Among roughly 34 million people aged 40 and older, the researchers estimate that about 1.02 million (3%) currently have glaucoma. Prevalence rises steeply with age—ranging from around 0.25% among 40–44-year-olds to nearly 11% in those aged 85 and over—and is modestly higher in men than women.

Ethnic differences also emerged in the analysis, with African heritage groups showing the highest overall prevalence (around 4%) and Asian groups the lowest (just under 2.5%). Although non-European groups make up a small share of the older population, they represent a disproportionately high number of glaucoma cases.

Using population projections from the UK’s Office for National Statistics, the team forecasts that the number of adults living with glaucoma will rise to approximately 1.61 million by 2060—a striking 60% increase on 2025 figures, despite a projected 28% growth in the over-40s population over the same period. This projected rise is driven largely by an ageing population and the increasing proportion of higher-risk ethnically diverse groups.

The authors highlight glaucoma’s asymptomatic nature in early stages and note that late diagnosis is common and a major contributor to preventable vision loss, with more than 40% of UK patients experiencing vision impairment due to delayed treatment. They stress that early detection and timely intervention are critical to slowing disease progression and preserving sight.

Given these findings, the researchers urge expanded eye health services, enhanced early detection efforts, and targeted public awareness strategies to address the growing public health challenge posed by glaucoma.

Reference

1. Meliante LA, Stuart KV, Luben RN, et al. Current burden and future projections of glaucoma in the United Kingdom. British Journal of Ophthalmology (online early). 15 January 2026. DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2025-328373.