Glaucoma awareness amongst glaucoma patients seeking a second opinion

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
• Understanding patient awareness is crucial for effective glaucoma management and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess glaucoma awareness levels among patients in urban and rural North India.
• To identify demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing glaucoma awareness.

Main Methods:

• A validated questionnaire was administered to 1506 patients aged 18+ via random sampling.
• Data collected included source of awareness, education, gender, location, and age.
• Awareness levels were assessed based on patient responses.

Main Results:

• Higher education levels significantly correlated with increased glaucoma awareness in both urban and rural populations (P<0.001).
• Patients with lower education were more likely to discuss glaucoma with their spouse (P<0.001).
• Younger adults demonstrated less awareness of glaucoma's familial risk compared to older groups (P<0.015).

Conclusions:

• A substantial knowledge gap regarding glaucoma and its risks exists in North India's urban and rural settings.
• Targeted awareness campaigns are essential to highlight glaucoma's link to blindness.
• Educational interventions should be prioritized to improve patient understanding.