Global Trends in Glaucoma Publications, 1900-2023

Precis: Glaucoma research has shown sustained exponential growth, with a marked recent rise in China’s scientific output. Purpose: This bibliometric study aims to trace the growth of glaucoma research from 1900 to 2023. An additional aim is to understand growth patterns in the field, with a focus on comparative contributions from the United States and China. Methods: Using databases including SCOPUS, Web of Science, and PubMed, publications containing “glaucoma” in their titles or keywords were selected. Chronological distribution, growth rates, duplication times, and author productivity, including complementary bibliometric indicators (h-index, g-index, and p-index), were analyzed. Results: There was a substantial increase in glaucoma research publications, particularly since 2008. The United States has historically led in scientific output, and recent trends show the rapid rise of China. If current trends persist, China is projected to surpass the United States in glaucoma research within two decades. Conclusions: Bibliometric analysis has revealed a substantial growth in the publication of scientific literature on glaucoma. This study highlights a global shift in glaucoma research, with China emerging as a major contributor. The findings provide valuable insights for future research direction and resource allocation in glaucoma research and highlight the evolving landscape of global scientific output.