New research suggests that exercise, such as walking or jogging, can help lower the risk of Glaucoma. Researchers from the American Academy of Ophthalmology analysed data from a large health and nutrition study, taking into account walking speed and steps per minute to define the level of physical activity. This study has shown that every 10-minute increase in the weekly amount of moderate to vigorous activity resulted in a 25 percent reduction in the risk of glaucoma.

Worldwide, Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Researchers have estimated that in 2013, worldwide, the number of people aged 40-80 with glaucoma was 64.3 million. This number is projected rise to 111.8 million by 2040.

The research suggests that it is not only the act of exercising that may be associated with decreased Glaucoma risk, but that people who exercise with higher speed and more steps of walking or running may even further decrease their glaucoma risk compared to people who exercise at lower speeds with fewer steps.

Sources:

1. Medical News Today:
   Exercise may protect you from glaucoma.

2. American Academy of Ophthalmology:
   Another Reason to Exercise: Protecting Your Sight.