Glaucoma patients' awareness of their disease and treatment
Session Details
Session Title: Presented Poster Session: Glaucoma
Venue: Poster Village: Pod 2
First Author: : R.Bafiq UK
Co Author(s): : C. Atkins R. Chaphekar H. Suleman A. Negi
Abstract Details
Purpose:
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of visual impairment in the United Kingdom and the world. The majority of these patients are initially asymptomatic and therefore may not realise the consequences of poor awareness of their disorder and poor adherence to treatment . Hence, we conducted a study to assess the awareness of glaucoma patients of their diagnosis, compliance and correct application of medication, knowledge on eye drop assistive devices and their interest in attending glaucoma support group meetings.
Setting:
Department of Ophthalmology, The Heart of England NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Methods:
Prospective observational study conducted from August 2015 to March 2016. Glaucoma patients were randomly selected to fill in a questionnaire enquiring across 5 domains relating to their diagnosis and treatment. Data was recorded and analysed using Microsoft Excel.
Results:
A total of sixty patients with an equal number of males and females were included. A third of the study population was between 50 to 70 years of age and 60% were above 70. Awareness of diagnosis was reported in 82% of patients. Recall of correct anti-glaucoma medications was made in 47% and 92% remembered correct frequency.
Poor compliance was reported in 43% of patients, of whom 25 patients admitted they missed treatment at least once a week. No prior knowledge of eye drop assistive devices or Glaucoma support groups was claimed in 75% and 60% of patients respectively.
Conclusions:
This study highlights the extent of engagement of patients in their glaucoma condition and where the deficiencies are that need addressing. As the majority of patients are elderly, age needs to be taken into consideration when designing these systems. This is with a view to improved management and hence less progression of glaucoma.
Financial Disclosure:
NONE
