Abstract :
Aims: The purpose of this study is to assess the economic burden of long term glaucoma therapy on
chronic glaucoma patients with the objectives to inquire regarding socio-economic status of the glaucoma
patients; the number, cost and duration of use of glaucoma medications by these patients and compliance
to treatment.
Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at our tertiary care centre where
100 consecutive patients on medical therapy, following up at our glaucoma service for atleast 6 months
were recruited. The patients had been diagnosed as glaucoma, following slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fundus
examination using 90 D lens, applanation tonometry, gonioscopy, and perimetry (Humphrey Field
Analyzer).
Observations: A total of 55 (55%) patients were compliant to glaucoma medication. On evaluating the
association of compliance with different sociodemographic factors higher cost of medication (>Rs 1000),
Lower Middle/Lower socioeconomic status and Hindus were found to be significantly associated with low
compliance.
Conclusion: Simplification of the treatment regimen and tailoring it to the patient’s routine are a must.
Follow-up visit reminders with proper tracking of patients must be taken care of.
Keyword :
Blindness, Compliance, Glaucoma.