Glaucoma is a common eye disease that can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected early. Many people are diagnosed too late because it develops slowly and often without symptoms. This project studies whether genetic information can help identify people at high glaucoma risk before developing permanent vision loss. Using data from the Helsinki Biobank, we will invite people with a high genetic risk to participate in eye exams. We aim to determine if genetic risk scores can improve early detection and help prevent vision loss. Later, we will design a larger clinical trial to test whether screening based on genetic risk truly protects eyesight over time. The goal is to create a more targeted, effective way to find and treat glaucoma early. This research will help doctors use genetics as a tool to improve eye health and may serve as a model for future screening programs in Finland and beyond.

2026

2029