AWARENESS OF GLAUCOMA AMONG RISK GROUP PATIENTS IN GEORGIA

Objectives:This study aimed to estimate awareness of Glaucoma among risk group patients in the outpatient settings of Tbilisi (capital of Georgia). Methods:To assess general, basic knowledge about glaucoma through direct interviewing of patients, 224 respondents in risk groups for developing Glaucoma were studied using the awareness questionnaire provided by the American National Eye Institute (NEI). Results:The total awareness score for the entire group was 3.7, corresponding to a low awareness level. The study results show that the recognition rate does not differ by gender the mean score in females was 3.9 ± 1.6, and in males - 3.5 ± 1.8. The study results show that the level of awareness varies significantly depending on the level of education. The very low awareness rate is significantly high among individuals with secondary education. However, no significant differences between the groups were observed in the responses to individual questions. Conclusions:Individuals with a high-risk factor for Glaucoma and people with a family history of Glaucoma should be educated about it and screened for it as early as possible. Glaucoma awareness needs to be raised. Public awareness campaigns, whether seminars, flyers, websites, or posters, can reach the public and show them the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent blindness from glaucoma.