There are several risk factors that make people more likely to develop glaucoma. Knowing your risk factors and having regular eye exams are two of the best ways to prevent glaucoma from developing. The most common risk factor is older age; glaucoma rarely develops in younger people. Other common risk factors include: Increasing intraocular pressure Family history of glaucoma Long-term use of steroid medications Chronic medical issues including diabetes, thyroid disease and high blood pressure Prior eye surgery Presence of other eye disease or issues like tumors, chronic inflammation and retinal detachment People of Asian and African descent also have a higher risk of developing glaucoma. View Video