PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS THAT PREDISPOSE PEOPLE TO GLAUCOMA AND MEASURES OF PREVENTION OF GLAUCOMA AMONG THE PATIENTS RECEIVING EYE CARE SERVICES IN THE EYE CLINIC AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Glaucoma is a group of disorders characterized by progressive optic neuropathy resulting in a characteristic appearance of the optic disc and a specific pattern of irreversible visual field defects. The study aims to assess the pathophysiological factors that predispose people to glaucoma and measures of prevention of glaucoma.

 Methodology

A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted because data was collected at one point in time. A non-probability convenient sampling process was used since a specific group of patients with glaucoma was required among patients above 40 years of age receiving eye health services at JRRH.

 Results

Most of the respondents 78% were above 40 years, 10% were 0 to 19 years with a percentage of 10%, 8.33% were 30 to 39 years and 3.33% were 20 to 29 years. Raised IOP contributed the highest percentage of 58% followed by systemic hypertension with a percentage of 16% then genetics and family history with a percentage of 12% followed medication-related IOP elevation with a percentage of 8% and finally myopia, systemic hypotension, and pseudoexfoliation syndrome all contributing to a percentage of 2% respectively. Early eye checkups turned out to be the most effective means for preventing glaucoma with the highest percentage of 34% followed by drug adherence with a percentage of 28% then reduction on steroid medication with a percentage of 12%.

 Conclusion

Raised IOP and systemic hypertension were the significant factors in glaucoma while early checkups drug adherence and reduction of steroid medications were the significant prevention measures for glaucoma.

 Recommendation

The Ministry of Health should equip all hospitals and health centers with the necessary equipment to enable eye health workers to diagnose glaucoma.