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Understanding Patient Preferences and Their Impact on Adherence to Glaucoma Therapy: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional
Tomás Hernández1, Sara Labay1, Susana Duch2
1Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Ophthalmology and Therapy
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Patient preferences for glaucoma treatment vary, impacting adherence. Personalized care, education on preservatives, and sustainable packaging are key to improving patient outcomes and satisfaction in managing this irreversible optic neuropathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Patient Care
- Public Health
Background:
- Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness due to optic neuropathy.
- Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the primary modifiable risk factor.
- Topical hypotensive eye drops are the standard treatment, but patient adherence is challenging due to asymptomatic early stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate patient preferences for glaucoma treatment.
- To identify factors influencing adherence to topical hypotensive eye drops.
- To inform patient-centered care strategies for glaucoma management.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, multicenter survey was conducted in Spain.
- 169 patients with glaucoma on topical treatment for over 6 months completed a questionnaire.
- The questionnaire assessed beliefs, preferences, and adherence-related factors.
Main Results:
- Treatment efficacy, side effects, ease of use, cost, and environmental impact were key factors influencing preferences.
- Patients had similar preferences for multidose bottles (42.2%) and single-dose units (37.0%), with younger women favoring single-dose units.
- Moderate self-reported adherence (57.6%) was observed; nonadherent patients favored reminder systems.
- Nearly 79% of patients valued the ecological impact of packaging.
Conclusions:
- Significant variability exists in patient preferences for glaucoma treatment.
- Personalized, patient-centered care is crucial for improving adherence and satisfaction.
- Enhanced education on preservatives, improved communication, and sustainable packaging options are recommended.
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