Noncompliance with medical treatment among glaucoma patients in Oman--a cross-sectional descriptive study.
OBJECTIVE
Glaucoma is a priority eye disease in Oman. In order to revise the existing policies for eye care, a study was conducted to review the noncompliance rates among glaucoma patients.


METHODS
Using the random method, we selected 105 glaucoma patients from among those visiting glaucoma clinics during 2003. They were interviewed by trained health professionals. A closed-ended questionnaire with 42 questions was used to note their responses. The questions dealt with their personal characteristics along with the patients' glaucoma treatment and their knowledge of and attitudes towards different components of noncompliance with medical treatment. The field staffs also observed the 'practice' of instilling placebo eyedrops. The responses were analyzed to grade the compliance, knowledge, attitude and practice of each patient.


RESULTS
Excellent compliance was found in 26 patients. Discontinuation of medication in the past was reported by 87 patients. Missing instillation of eyedrops and irregular visits to the ophthalmologist were noted in 10 and 14 patients, respectively. Adequate knowledge about glaucoma and its complications was negatively associated with noncompliance [RR 2.05 (95% CI 1.07-3.93)].


CONCLUSIONS
The high rates of noncompliance among glaucoma patients in Oman demand a systematic programmed approach. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the causal association between noncompliance and Knowledge, Attitude and Practice. Health education, communication while dispensing medication, reducing the frequency of medication and using devices for the easy administration of eyedrops could further improve compliance.
Khandekar
Rajiv
R
Eye & Ear Health Care, Ministry of Health, Oman. rajshpp@omantel.net.om
Shama
Mona El-Sayed
Mel-S
Mohammed
Ali Jaffer
AJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D005901:Glaucoma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009850:Oman / Q000453:epidemiology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016312:Treatment Refusal / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents