Epidemiological Study And Presenting Features Of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma(POAG) At Initial Diagnosis

Abstract

Background: Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) tends to progress slowly and patients are often asymptomatic until the disease reaches an advanced stage. Injury due to glaucoma is largely irreversible, so early detection and prevention is of vital importance.

Objectives: To study the clinical presentation of primary open-angle glaucoma at initial diagnosis.

Study design: A descriptive hospital-based study.

Participants: 196 patients aged > 40 years presenting first time with POAG.

Methods: After obtaining ethical clearance from the Institution Ethical Committee, a detailed history was taken from every patient. Complete systemic and ocular examination was done.

Results: The mean age in our study is 58.1yrs.60.2% were males and 39.8% were females.63.3% of the study cases presented with the blurring of vision.13.3% presented with headache, 9.7% had watering, 7.1% had irritation, whereas 3.6% had burning sensation and 3.1% had itching respectively.16.8% had glaucomatous optic atrophy in the right eye and 39.8% had glaucomatous optic atrophy in the left eye.

Conclusion: Majority of our study patients presented with the complaint of blurring of vision. In our study we found most of the patients presented late in the disease stage, indicating a lack of awareness about the disease, especially in rural areas. A health service response is required to prevent blindness from glaucoma.

Implications: In view of our study, improving glaucoma awareness among masses shall go long way in reducing the incidence and morbidity of POAG. This can be done through print media, electronic media and social networking sites.