Yes—glaucoma can be hereditary, but it depends on the type.
How heredity plays a role
- Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) (the most common type) often runs in families.
If a parent or sibling has it, your risk is about 2–4 times higher than average. - Angle-closure glaucoma also has a genetic component, especially in certain ethnic groups.
- Congenital and juvenile glaucomas are more strongly linked to specific genetic mutations and are clearly inherited.
What this means for you
Having a family history does not guarantee you’ll get glaucoma, but it does mean:
- You should have regular comprehensive eye exams, including eye pressure and optic nerve checks.
- Screening should start earlier and be more frequent than for someone without a family history.
Other risk factors (besides genetics)
- Age (risk increases after 40–60)
- High eye pressure
- African, Asian, or Hispanic ancestry
- Thin corneas
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, or long-term steroid use