Prevalence of Glaucoma in First Degree Relatives of Known Glaucoma Patients

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of glaucoma in first degree relatives of known glaucoma patients. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the clinical and epidemiological behavior of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in 377 relatives of glaucomatous patients, of whom 195 (52%) were suspect to POAG. The patients who were already diagnosed with glaucoma and they came to eye ward for their follow up checkups, and those who were admitted for glaucoma surgery, their blood relatives were included in the study. We included those members of a family who voluntarily presented themselves for the research following inclusion & exclusion criteria. The data collected was statistically analyzed and the results were tabulated. Results: Out of 377 participants 51% were male, majority of cases were between 40-60 years of age, three types of Glaucoma were prevalent in these individuals, 60% of individuals were having Primary Open Angle Glaucoma, 25% were having Ocular Hypertension glaucoma and 15% were having Normal Tension Glaucoma. The POAG was diagnosed in overall 45% of male and 40 % of female population. Conclusion: According to the results, the prevalence of the POAG is much higher in individuals having family history with Glaucoma. In addition, investigations of all adult subjects from families with POAG yields new cases. The high prevalence of POAG among individuals having positive family history clearly indicates that strong relationship between genetics and Glaucoma.