Is Prevention of Glaucoma Possible in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Introduction: Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world and represents a significant social and health problem. Early detection of glaucoma enables early initiation of treatment and may delay disease progression. The aim of this work is to determine whether it is possible to detect glaucoma in early stages.

Methods: A public awareness campaign was carried out in University Clinic Center (UCC) in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) during 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 Glaucoma Week, with one-day, free of charge screening of individuals. This screening program was composed of getting brief medical history, slit-lamp examination including intraocular pressure and anterior chamber dept evaluation and non-mydriatic fundus exam with evaluation of the cup/disk ration.

Results: A total of 682 individuals were screened, 277 were male and 405 were female. The youngest individual was 8 years old and the oldest individual was 84 years old. The mean age was 57.6 years. Intraocular pressure higher then 21,9 mmHg was found in 83 patients.

Conclusion: Glaucoma is a disease that affects visual acuity and gradually leads to blindness. It occurs in all age groups in both sexes and in all races. Early detection of disease and proper treatment can prevent permanent loss of vision. Detection and early treatment of glaucoma must become one of the leading public health programs in B&H.