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Uncontrolled Hypertension Is Common in Glaucoma Clinics
Varshini Varadaraj1, Ashok Vardhan2, Lucy I Mudie1
1Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
American Journal of Hypertension
|July 17, 2018
Summary
Eye clinics identified high blood pressure (hypertension) in nearly one-third of patients and significant numbers of smokers. Referrals to care providers showed some success in managing these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Cardiology
Background:
- Uncontrolled hypertension and smoking pose significant risks to vision.
- Eye clinics encounter a substantial number of patients with these modifiable risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and smoking among patients visiting an eye clinic.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of referrals to care providers for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Blood pressure and smoking status were collected from patients aged 18+ at an eye clinic.
- Patients with elevated blood pressure or smokers received educational pamphlets and referrals.
- Referral outcomes were tracked within 10 weeks.
Main Results:
- Nearly 30% of patients had elevated blood pressure (BP), with 66% of those previously diagnosed.
- 60% of patients with elevated BP attended follow-up, with 8.8% newly diagnosed and 19.3% adjusting prescriptions.
- 77.4% of smokers accepted referral; 50% participated in cessation programs, with one successful quitter.
Conclusions:
- Eye clinics are valuable sites for identifying patients with uncontrolled hypertension and smoking.
- Referral systems can facilitate access to necessary medical care and cessation programs.
- Targeted interventions in eye care settings can address critical public health issues.
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