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Abstract #59227 Published in IGR 16-3
Prevalence of increased intraocular pressure and optic disk cupping: multicenter glaucoma screening in Israel during the 2009 and 2010 World Glaucoma Weeks
Nesher R;Israeli Medical Association Journal 2014; 16: 483-486
BACKGROUND: Early detection of glaucoma enables early initiation of treatment. Screening populations at risk is likely to help achieve this goal. OBJECTIVES: To increase public awareness regarding early detection of glaucoma, and estimate the prevalence of increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and optic disk cupping in the screened population. METHODS: A public awareness campaign was carried out in Israel during the 2009 and 2010 World Glaucoma Week, culminating each year in a one-day, free-of-charge screening of individuals in 13 outreach public locations. Screening was performed by 45 ophthalmologists and included a brief medical history, slit-lamp exam with measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP), and evaluation of cup/disk ratio. RESULTS: A total of 2560 individuals were screened; the mean age was 59 +/- 13 years. IOP > or = 21 mmHg was found in 4.8%, and 12.3% had cupping > or = 0.5. IOP > or = 21 mmHg together with cupping > or = 0.5 were present in 1.4% and this rate increased with age: 3.7% of cases in the age group > or = 70 years compared to 1% and 0.6% in the age groups 50-69 and < 50 years, respectively (P < 0.001). Likewise, the prevalence of cupping > or = 0.7 and of IOP > or = 24 mmHg increased significantly with age. The prevalence of IOP > or = 21 mmHg increased in cases with a family history of glaucoma in first-degree relatives (10.5% compared to 3.9%, P < 0.001). The prevalence of IOP > or = 21 mmHg was also increased in diabetic patients (8.3% vs. 4.3% in non-diabetics, P = 0.002). Further ophthalmologic evaluation was recommended to 13% of the screened individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Outreach screening for glaucoma is a valuable tool for detecting glaucoma, pre-perimetric glaucoma, or ocular hypertension in a meaningful number of previously undiagnosed cases. Yet, cost-effectiveness issues should also be considered. The yield of such screening increases with age and seems to be most advantageous in cases with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma.
Classification:
1.6 Prevention and screening (Part of: 1 General aspects)
1.1 Epidemiology (Part of: 1 General aspects)
