AWARENESS AND SCREENING PRACTICES OF GLAUCOMA AMONG HIGH-RISK INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN NORTH INDIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, with early detection being critical for preventing vision loss. However, awareness and screening practices remain suboptimal, particularly in developing countries like India. High-risk groups require special attention due to their increased susceptibility to the disease.

Objectives: To assess the level of awareness and screening practices of glaucoma among high-risk individuals attending a tertiary care hospital in North India and to identify factors associated with awareness.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2013 to December 2013 among 86 high-risk individuals aged ≥40 years attending the ophthalmology outpatient department. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic details, awareness of glaucoma, sources of information, and screening practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0. Associations were evaluated using the Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Out of 86 participants, only 32.6% were aware of glaucoma, while 27.9% had undergone prior screening. Healthcare professionals were the primary source of information among those aware. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were the most common risk factors. Awareness was significantly associated with urban residence (p = 0.01) and higher educational status (p = 0.002), whereas age and gender showed no significant association. Screening practices were generally poor, with irregular follow-up even among those previously screened.

Conclusion: Awareness and screening practices for glaucoma among high-risk individuals are inadequate. There is a need for targeted educational interventions, improved accessibility to screening services, and integration of glaucoma screening into routine clinical practice to facilitate early detection and reduce preventable blindness.