PREVALENCE OF PRIMARY OPEN ANGLE GLAUCOMA IN PATIENTS WHO UNDERWENT CATARACT SURGERY UNDER DISTRICT BLINDNESS CONTROL PROGRAM (DBCS) IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN TAMIL NADU
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Keywords
Primary open-angle glaucoma, Cataract surgery, Cup–disc ratio, Intraocular pressure, Screening
Abstract
Background: Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, often detected incidentally during routine or cataract evaluations. Opportunistic screening among cataract surgery candidates can aid in early diagnosis and prevention of vision loss.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence of POAG among patients who underwent cataract surgery under the District Blindness Control Society (DBCS) program.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,078 patients who underwent cataract surgery under the DBCS category. Comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation including intraocular pressure (IOP), optic disc assessment, and gonioscopy was performed. The Chi-square test was used to assess associations between POAG and selected variables.
Results: Out of 2078 participants, 88 (4.23%) were diagnosed with POAG. The majority were aged 61–70 years (51.1%), followed by those above 70 years (29.6%). POAG prevalence increased significantly with age (χ² = 46.27, p < 0.001) and was slightly higher in males (60.2%). A strong association was found between POAG and elevated IOP (χ² = 79.85, p < 0.001) and higher cup–disc ratio (CDR) (χ² = 85.40, p < 0.001). All POAG cases had open angles on gonioscopy.
Conclusion: The prevalence of POAG among cataract surgery patients was 4.23%. Advancing age and higher CDR were significant risk factors. Incorporating glaucoma screening into routine preoperative evaluation for cataract surgery, particularly in elderly patients, is recommended for early detection and management.
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Dr. Sreeragaaghanidhi Karunanithi
Associate Professor, Department of Opthalmology, Swamy Vivekanandha Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Tiruchengode, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India.
Dr. Sathish Venugopal
Assistant Professor, Department of Opthalmology, Swamy Vivekanandha Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Tiruchengode, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India.