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Future of glaucoma hinges on innovation, new definitions
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SAN DIEGO — Glaucoma specialists needs determination, curiosity and a desire to innovate, according to a lecturer here at the American Glaucoma Society meeting.
 Robert N. Weinreb |
"Many of us when we begin our careers, we think that it is quite easy to make progress," Robert N. Weinreb, MD, said during the AGS Lecture. "Making progress in glaucoma is not that easy."
Future research will produce and benefit from new definitions of glaucoma.
"I think we're on the verge of adopting new definitions of glaucoma, ones that will be more specific and more sensitive," he said.
New instrumentation for testing structural and functional aspects of glaucoma will help drive insights into diagnosis and treatment.
"I think we have the possibility to have a more specific diagnosis for glaucoma that relies upon progressive structural and functional change and not simply a status comparison of the optic nerve structure and function," Dr. Weinreb said.
In addition, genetic research will produce new models for understanding and treating glaucoma.
To drive home the point that innovation is a slow, tedious and worthwhile process that requires perseverance and courage, Dr. Weinreb quoted writer and actor Woody Allen: "If you're not failing every now and again, it's a sign that you're not doing anything very innovative."
Dr. Weinreb advised his colleagues: "Don't worry about failing. It's OK."