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Abstract #15824 Published in IGR 2-3
Compliance and viewpoint of glaucoma patients in Greece
Konstas AG; Maskaleris G; Gratsonidis S; Sardelli CEye 2000; 14: 752-756
PURPOSE: To document the prevalence of non-compliance and to investigate patients' perceptions concerning glaucoma in a Greek cohort. METHODS: The authors investigated 100 consecutive patients referred to their glaucoma clinic and already treated for chronic glaucoma. Compliance and patients' insight were ascertained by two independent observers by means of a predetermined questionnaire. All patients were subsequently assessed for their ability to instil their eye drops accurately. RESULTS: Fifty-one percent of the patients were not aware of the nature of glaucoma, but 80% were afraid it might lead to blindness. Clinically significant non-compliance (more than two doses missed per week) was established in 44% of the patients. Men and those using eye drops more than four times a day were more likely to default. Non-compliant patients exhibited higher mean intraocular pressure (22.9 versus 18.5 mmHg; p > 0.001) and worse visual field loss (10.8 versus 7.0 dB; p = 0.008) compared with compliant patients. Involuntary non-compliance was also common in this group, with only 53% instilling their eye drops accurately. CONCLUSION: Non-compliance is a significant limiting factor in glaucoma therapy in Greece.
Dr. A.G. Konstas, Department of Ophthalmology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece. konstas@med.auth.gr
Classification:
11.1 General management, indication (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)