'A uniquely direct route that might cause damage': Scientists uncover link between air pollution and eye diseases like glaucoma - Live Science

Sponsored by AlconWhy the Next Evolution of Glaucoma Care Has ArrivedFor decades, topical medications have been the default first-line treatment for glaucoma. However, the well-recognized challenges of daily eye drops, including poor adherence, ocular surface disease, and long-term treatment, have fueled a significant transformation in glaucoma therapy.1-5 As a result, glaucoma management has undergone a fundamental shift towards laser-based solutions. Why Laser-First Therapy Is Changing Glaucoma PracticeAt the European Glaucoma Society (EGS) meeting in 2026, Prof. Gus Gazzard explained why Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is the ideal first-line therapy.6-8 SLT Outcomes Supported by Clinical EvidenceThe Landmark LiGHT Trial has demonstrated that:Nearly 70% of eyes treated with SLT first (with six years of follow-up) remained drop-free without glaucoma surgery.9Disease progression occurred less frequently in eyes treated with SLT than those initially managed with medications (26.8% vs. 19.6%, respectively; P 0.006).9Fewer trabeculectomies and phacoemulsifications were required in patients who underwent SLT than in those treated with eye drops (trabeculectomy: 13 [2.4%] vs.