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Treatment of glaucoma among elderly patients in Sofia
Milcheva Evelina Marinova1,2, Krasimirova Emilia Naseva3, Todorov Yani Zdravkov1,2
1Medical University of Sofia, Bulgaria.
Romanian Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 28, 2020
Summary
Glaucoma treatment in elderly Sofia residents primarily uses conservative monotherapy, with prostaglandin analogues being common. Fixed combinations are preferred for multi-drug regimens to improve adherence and reduce side effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally.
- The elderly population (65+) represents a significant demographic affected by glaucoma.
- Understanding current therapeutic practices in specific populations is crucial for effective glaucoma management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current glaucoma therapy in the elderly population (65+) in Sofia, Bulgaria.
- To assess the prevalence of different treatment modalities, including monotherapy and combination therapy.
- To compare local treatment practices with international standards.
Main Methods:
- Two prophylactic ophthalmic screening campaigns were conducted in Sofia in 2016 and 2017.
- Comprehensive ophthalmic examinations and questionnaires were administered to participants.
- Data on antiglaucoma therapy were collected and statistically analyzed.
Main Results:
- Conservative monotherapy was the predominant treatment for diagnosed glaucoma patients.
- Prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) were prescribed to over half of the patients.
- Fixed combination therapies were utilized in 86% of cases requiring two drugs and 100% for three drugs, prioritizing patient compliance and minimizing adverse events.
Conclusions:
- Glaucoma treatment strategies for the elderly in Sofia align with global practices.
- Conservative monotherapy is prevalent (mean 45%), with a strong preference for fixed combinations in multi-drug regimens.
- There is an emerging trend towards preservative-free formulations to enhance ocular health and patient compliance.
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