Glaucoma Research Studies

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is often caused by high pressure inside your eye, though glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure. The optic nerve is essential for good vision, and damage to it can lead to permanent vision loss and blindness if not treated properly.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically has no early symptoms. It can affect people of all ages but is more common in adults over 40, especially those with a family history of glaucoma. You might not notice any symptoms in the early stages, but as the condition progresses, you may experience gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, tunnel vision, or difficulty seeing in low light. By the time symptoms appear, significant vision loss may have already occurred.

Why Consider Clinical Research for Glaucoma?

Currently, doctors focus on lowering eye pressure to slow glaucoma progression, but existing treatments don’t work for everyone and don’t restore vision that’s already been lost. Many patients need better treatment options to preserve their remaining vision and prevent further damage. That’s why researchers are working to develop new medications, surgical techniques, and neuroprotective treatments.

Clinical research studies help us learn:

  • How new treatments work compared to current ones for lowering eye pressure
  • Which patients might benefit most from different therapeutic approaches
  • How to better protect the optic nerve from damage
  • Ways to detect glaucoma earlier and monitor its progression
  • Methods to preserve vision and improve quality of life for people with glaucoma

Glaucoma Research Program

These studies are testing different types of new treatments that might help people with this condition. Each study looks at different aspects of glaucoma management, from newly developed eye drops and surgical procedures to innovative approaches for protecting the optic nerve and preserving vision.

We work with leading researchers and pharmaceutical companies to bring the latest treatment options to our local community. This means you might have access to new therapies before they’re widely available.

What Does Participation Mean?

If you join one of our glaucoma studies, you’ll receive:

  • Close monitoring by our experienced research team
  • Study-related treatment is provided at no cost—insurance will not be billed
  • Access to study medication or treatment (if applicable)
  • Detailed information about your condition
  • Care from specialists who focus on glaucoma and eye health

Could You Be Eligible?

People with glaucoma might be eligible for our studies, but each study has different requirements. Things we typically look at include:

  • What type of glaucoma you have and how advanced it is
  • Your current eye pressure and vision status
  • What treatments you’ve tried before and how you responded
  • Your overall health
  • Other medical conditions you might have

Our team will explain everything clearly and answer all your questions before you decide to join any study.

Your Safety and Comfort Come First

Your safety is our top priority. We follow strict guidelines to protect everyone who takes part in our studies, all of which are reviewed by independent medical ethics boards. Throughout the study, we’ll closely monitor your health to ensure your well-being. Your involvement is entirely voluntary, and you may withdraw from the study at any point without obligation.

Making a Difference

By joining our research, you’re not just potentially helping your own condition – you’re contributing to medical knowledge that could help millions of people with glaucoma. Your participation helps us understand what works best and guides future treatment options.

Next Steps

Every person with glaucoma is different, and every study has different goals. The best way to find out if one of our current research studies might be right for you is to talk with our team.
We’ll explain each study, answer all your questions, and help you understand what participation would involve. Remember, learning about a study doesn’t mean you have to join it – you can take your time to decide what’s best for you.

Ready to learn more?

Contact our office at 208-621-2503 to speak with our research team about current research study opportunities. We’re here to help you understand your options with no pressure or obligation.