Factors Affecting Compliance to Glaucoma Medications in a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria: Glaucoma

Aina Akinsola; Olawoye Olusola; Oluleye Tunji

Authors

Aina Akinsola Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Surgery, Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Oyo-State.
Olawoye Olusola Department of Ophthalmology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo-State.
Oluleye Tunji Department of Ophthalmology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo-State.

Abstract

Introduction: Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive optic neuropathy with a characteristic optic disc change (structural) and corresponding visual field defects of which raised intraocular pressure is the most consistent and only modifiable risk factor 1- 5 . Compliance with medical therapy is important for lowering intraocular pressure, prevention of disease progression and proper disease management5-7. Non-compliance with glaucoma medications has been estimated to range from 5 to 80%2, 8, 9. This study aims to assess the level and determinants of compliance with medical therapy in glaucoma patients attending Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) Ogbomoso Oyo State.

Methods: This study was a descriptive hospitalbased cross-sectional study which was conducted at the eye clinic of BUTH Ogbomoso. One hundred and eighty primary open angle glaucoma patients aged 40 years and above were recruited into this study. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic data, self-reported level of compliance and factors affecting compliance. Compliance level was determined by the patient’s own estimate on a scale of 1 to 10 (maximum point is 10). Participants with a score of > 7.5 were referred to as having good compliance while a score below 7.5 was poor compliance 10 .

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