PRIMARY OPEN-ANGLE GLAUCOMA AND FARMACOECONOMICS - REVIEW

Abstract

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is defined as a chronic and progressive disease. Date suggested that it is the second most common cause of the blindness in the world. Blindness, as global problem, is partially consequences of poor health insurance, low medical education, etc. The only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma is intraocular pressure. Cost of the antiglaucomatous treatment increased by prescribing and using wide spectrum of antiglaucomatous drugs. If an ophthalmologist is not satisfied with glaucomatous disease control, need for the laser or surgical treatment is appeared. Disease stadium also determines the cost of the treatment. The social and economic burden of glaucoma can be changed by increased life expectancy, older population age and higher per capita GDP. Unique opinion about cost effectiveness cannot be reached, due to nonconforming findings of many studies. Treatment approach must be individualized to every patient, according to the disease's stadium, availability of therapeutic modalities and approaches, life expectancy and the level of GDP. Efficacy, compliance and potential side-effects of prescribed medication also determine the proper treatment choice.

Keywords

• primary open-angle glaucoma
• therapy
• pharmacoeconomics
• social burden of glaucoma