Comparative Analysis of Glaucoma Screening Uptake Among First-Degree Relatives in Community-Based and Hospital-Based Approaches

In conclusion, the study shows that the hospital-based group had a significantly higher screening uptake than the community-based group, reflecting that information from ophthalmologists and registered ophthalmic nurses is more effective and well-received than that from village health volunteers. The study suggests that increasing education and support for village health volunteers could enhance screening uptake. Factors influencing uptake include the age of FDRs, place of residence, education, presenting VA of probands, and treatment of probands. Utilizing this study's findings, spreading knowledge and training health officials at the district and sub-district levels could increase understanding of glaucoma and improve communication with the general public and at-risk groups, potentially increasing the response rate. Additionally, implementing a national free screening glaucoma program for at-risk populations, both in and outside hospitals, and organizing mobile screening units at the district level could be an effective prevention strategy against permanent vision loss from glaucoma.