46 saved#3,491 of 6,224

National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Don't let glaucoma sneak up on you - join us in raising awareness and promoting early detection during National Glaucoma Awareness Month.

Friday

1–31

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAll of January

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to kick off the new year by spreading awareness about glaucoma during National Glaucoma Awareness Month in January! This month-long observance was first established by the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 2002, with the goal of educating people about this serious eye disease that affects millions worldwide. Did you know that glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness and can often go undetected until irreversible damage has been done? But don't worry – there are plenty of ways to keep your eyes healthy and prevent or manage glaucoma. So let's start the year off right by learning more about this important topic and taking care of our precious vision.

TIMELINE

National Glaucoma Awareness Month Timeline

Glaucoma Foundation Founded

Albrecht von Graefe establishes the foundation for modern ophthalmology, developing a method to diagnose glaucoma.

Glaucoma Research Foundation Established

The Glaucoma Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization, is established to fund innovative research, provide information about glaucoma to the public, and support glaucoma patients.

First Glaucoma Awareness Month Observed

The first National Glaucoma Awareness Month is observed in the United States to raise public awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to prevent blindness from glaucoma.

"Big Picture" Initiative Launch

The "Big Picture" initiative is launched, encouraging individuals with glaucoma to share their stories, attracting media attention and raising awareness.

World Glaucoma Week Initiated

The World Glaucoma Association and the World Glaucoma Patient Association initiate the annual World Glaucoma Week, further spreading awareness globally.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Schedule an eye exam

The best way to celebrate National Glaucoma Awareness Month is by taking care of your own eye health. Schedule an eye exam with your optometrist to check for any signs of glaucoma.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself about glaucoma

Take some time to learn more about glaucoma and its risk factors. Understanding the disease can help you better protect your eyes and recognize any symptoms you may experience.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread awareness about glaucoma and the importance of regular eye exams. You can share informative articles, statistics, or even personal experiences with the disease.

ATTEND

Attend a glaucoma support group

Connect with others who have been affected by glaucoma by attending a support group meeting. This can be a great way to learn from others, share your own experiences, and find support and understanding.

DONATE

Donate to a glaucoma research organization

Show your support for finding a cure for glaucoma by donating to a reputable research organization. Every little bit helps in the fight against this sight-threatening disease.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Glaucoma Awareness Month is Important

Support individuals affected by glaucoma

Those living with glaucoma face daily challenges that can impact their overall well-being. By recognizing National Glaucoma Awareness Month, we can show our support for those affected by the disease and encourage them to seek support and resources for managing their condition.

Raise awareness for a common disease

Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States, affecting over 3 million people. By recognizing National Glaucoma Awareness Month, we can bring attention to this often overlooked disease and educate others about its symptoms and treatments.

Encourage regular eye exams

Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting glaucoma early on, when treatment is most effective. By promoting National Glaucoma Awareness Month, we can remind people to schedule an eye exam and potentially catch any signs of glaucoma before it progresses.

Related holidays

World Glaucoma Week

A week-long awareness observance in March raising awareness about glaucoma and encouraging regular eye checks to prevent avoidable vision loss.

World Glaucoma Day

An awareness observance on March 12 raising awareness about glaucoma, promoting early detection through regular eye exams, and educating the public to prevent blindness from this silent condition.

National Eye Care Month

Don't turn a blind eye to your vision - join us in raising awareness and promoting healthy habits during National Eye Care Month!

National Eye Exam Month

Don't neglect your eyes - schedule an eye exam this National Eye Exam Month and keep your vision sharp for all of life's adventures!

34Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API