Non-adherence and non-persistence to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections play a key role in treating a range of macular diseases. The effectiveness of these therapies is dependent on patients' adherence (the extent to which a patient takes their medicines as per agreed recommendations from the healthcare provider) and persistence (continuation of the treatment for the prescribed duration) to their prescribed treatment regimens. The aim of this systematic review was to demonstrate the need for further investigation into the prevalence of, and factors contributing to, patient-led non-adherence and non-persistence, thus facilitating improved clinical outcomes.

Patients' perceptions of visual impairment associated with smoking: A cross-sectional study of a United Kingdom tertiary eye centre.

Smoking is a well-established risk factor for several eye disorders including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. While many individuals are informed of the various adverse health effects, there is limited research into patients' awareness of the relationship between smoking and eye disease and the potential impact this might have on reducing smoking behaviour. Our findings document the low level of awareness of the risk of blindness from smoking at a tertiary eye unit in the United Kingdom and highlight the need for increased involvement from eye care professionals, alongside health campaigns to educate the public of this consequence of smoking.