DR. ANNAMALAI O.

DR. MOHIDEEN ABDUL KADAR PMT, DR. GANESH V. RAMAN, DR. NEETHU MOHAN

Abstract

A positive family history is an important risk factor predisposing the first degree relatives of either POAG or PACG to develop glaucoma. The success of any screening based on family history depends on the response rate from the families. Previous studies have showed a poor family response rate. To enhance family screening, we devised a new software which will maintain the details of all first degree relatives aged over 25 years of patients with POAG, PACG and PXFG who are diagnosed at the base hospital, generate automated SMS to them offering screening. We discuss the outcomes of this intervention. Between April 2021 and March 2022, messages were sent to 11207 first-degree relatives of 4953 glaucoma patients. 2606 (23.2%) relatives visited the base hospital among whom 67 (2.6%) were newly found to have glaucoma and another 498 (19.1%) were identified as glaucoma suspects.