Instructor in Ophthalmology, Mass Eye and Ear/Harvard Medical School
March 11, 2026
Family history is one of the strongest risk factors for glaucoma—having a parent, sibling, or child with the disease can increase your risk by up to 10 times. In this episode, Dr. Inas Aboobakar explains the role of genetics and family history in glaucoma, what and when to share with relatives, and how to encourage glaucoma eye exams. You’ll also learn about practical resources to help families take proactive steps together.
Dr. Aboobakar is a glaucoma specialist at Mass. Eye and Ear/Harvard Medical School. In addition to her clinical work, she also conducts research to understand how an individual’s genetic makeup contributes to their risk of developing glaucoma. The long-term goal of this work is to use genetic knowledge to personalize approaches to diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Her research is supported by the National Eye Institute, the Research to Prevent Blindness, the American Glaucoma Society, and the Chandler Grant Glaucoma Society. She has also been an invited speaker on glaucoma genetics at multiple national and international meetings.
BrightFocus Foundation is a premier global nonprofit funder of research to defeat Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Since its inception more than 50 years ago, BrightFocus and its flagship research programs—Alzheimer’s Disease Research, Macular Degeneration Research, and National Glaucoma Research—has awarded more than $300 million in research grants to scientists around the world, catalyzing thousands of scientific breakthroughs, life-enhancing treatments, and diagnostic tools. We also share the latest research findings, expert information, and resources to empower the millions impacted by these devastating diseases. Learn more at brightfocus.org.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is a public service of BrightFocus Foundation and is not intended to constitute medical advice. Please consult your physician for personalized medical, dietary, and/or exercise advice. Any medications or supplements should only be taken under medical supervision. BrightFocus Foundation does not endorse any medical products or therapies.
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