Publication:

A study of ophthalmologic profile of patients with glaucoma

Background There will be 60.5 million people with OAG and ACG in 2010, increasing to 79.6 million by 2020, and of these, 74% will have OAG. Women will comprise 55% of OAG, 70% of ACG, and 59% of all glaucoma in 2010. Asians will represent 47% of those with glaucoma and 87% of those with ACG. Bilateral blindness will be present in 4.5 million people with OAG and 3.9 million people with ACG in 2010, rising to 5.9 and 5.3 million people in 2020, respectively. Objective of the study is to study ophthalmologic profile of patients with glaucoma.

Methods A hospital based cross sectional study was carried out among 60 glaucoma patients in the department of ophthalmology, at a tertiary care hospital. A pretested, semi structured questionnaire was used as a study tool. Detailed history as per the questionnaire including age, sex, religion, occupation, social class and side affected was taken from each and every patient. Complete clinical examination was done.

Results Maximum cases (33.3%) were seen in the age group of 40-49 years followed by 25% of cases in less than 20 years of age. No case was seen in the age group of 50-59 years. It was observed that glaucoma was more common in males (66.7%) compared to females (33.3%). Majority were Hindu (75%) compared to Muslim. Majority of patients (58.4%) were labourers. 25% were children and they were dependent on their parents. 50% of cases were found to have right eye affected and only 8.3% had bilaterally affected eyes.

Conclusions Prevalence of glaucoma was more in the age group of 40-49 years. Prevalence was more among males compared to females. Right side of eye was commonly affected.