Factors Associated with Non-Compliance to Long Term Glaucoma Medication in A Developing Country

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v38i3.1417

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the level of adherence with long-term glaucoma therapy at a tertiary care center,and to correlate the factors associated with non-compliance.

Study design: Cross sectional study

Place and Duration of Study Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital (ASTEH), Rawalpindi from October 2018 to February 2019

Methods: Two hundred patients presenting at the glaucoma clinic were recruited. An interview-based questionnaire was used to gather data. The dependent variable, adherence to long-term glaucoma treatment, was determinedand independent variables were;demographic profile, socio-economic variables, ocular and medical history, personal knowledge and understanding about disease and satisfaction level of the patient. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 24. Descriptive analysiswas followed by Inferential Statistics. To determine any association between independent and outcome variables, chi-square test was applied. All inferential statistics were based on a 5% significance value.

Results:A high rate (30%) of non-compliance was found. A significant correlation was present between chief complaints of patients with compliance to medication (p<0.05). Knowledge about disease, education statuswere also found to be correlated with the compliance to glaucoma treatment (p<0.05). However, age and gender had no effect on level of compliance. Eighty two percent knew that glaucoma can lead to blindness which urged them to have regular follow-up. 

Conclusion: More than one-fourth of the participants were non-compliant with the glaucoma therapy. Compliance with glaucoma treatment is an important factor for preventing progression of disease. Factors leading to poor compliance can be controlled by good communication between patient and physician.