Glaucoma requires adequate screening and early treatment. The eye examination is also necessary for first-degree relatives of patients. Related campaigns are available in South India to improve eye care. This study reports the outcomes of glaucoma screening campaigns with first-degree relatives.
A glaucoma screening was conducted for the benefit of first-degree relatives. A total of 1598 patients were asked to bring in their siblings and children. Letters and phone calls were the primary forms of communication. Questionnaires assessed the barriers to participation along with glaucoma risk awareness. Standard eye examination and 2-proportion z-tests for categorical data comparison were done, and the screening costs were also recorded by the researchers.
Only 12.9% or 206 probands visited the screening center with 50 siblings and children. Letter and phone call invites were twice as effective as letter invitations only. Only 1/2 probands reported of relatives absence due to long distance. While 1/5th of the relatives were busy due to other commitments. 58% of relatives were unaware of glaucoma family history risk, while 32% were ignorant of the inviters glaucoma disease. About 26% of attendees or 13 relatives had glaucoma-related findings. The average screening cost per relative was 26 pounds or 2422 rupees.
The glaucoma screening campaigns received a poor response. Indirect costs and distance from the screening site were the main obstacles. Efficient strategies are essential to bringing in the first-degree relative of glaucoma patients.
Ref: https://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2021/01/08/bjophthalmol-2020-317176
