Integrating opportunistic glaucoma screening into general health examinations in China: A pilot study

Under-detection and late diagnosis are major causes of glaucoma-related visual impairment. Cost-effective opportunistic glaucoma screening is of great interest in the early identification and prevention of glaucoma.

To describe the results of a health examination centre-based opportunistic glaucoma screening and referral model.

This single centre cross-sectional study was conducted in a health examination centre affiliated to a tertiary hospital in Shenyang, northeastern China.

From 21 March to 30 September 2016, 14 367 individuals aged ≥ 30 years undergoing routine physical examinations were invited for this glaucoma screening.

Presenting visual acuity, non-contact pneumotonometry and non-mydriatic fundus photography were evaluated. Fundus photographs were classified as non-glaucoma, possible, probable and definitive glaucoma. Participants with probable and definite glaucomatous discs or intraocular pressure ≥ 24 mmHg were referred for definitive examinations.

Detection rate of glaucoma suspects and ocular hypertension (OHT). Cost to identify a single case with suspected and diagnosed glaucoma was also calculated.

Altogether, 277 glaucoma suspects and 327 ocular hypertension suspects were identified. Among 190 participants with probable/definite glaucomatous discs, 93 (48.9%) accepted further examination. Among these, 78 were diagnosed as glaucoma, seven as suspects and eight were excluded. Only 98 ocular hypertension suspects (30.0%) accepted further examinations: eight had primary angle closure and 23 had confirmed ocular hypertension. The cost to identify a single glaucoma suspect and definite glaucoma case were US$135 and US$857, respectively.

This novel screening model provides opportunities to improve glaucoma detection at low cost. Interventions to improve follow-up are needed.