Adherence with Medical Therapy for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma in Kenya - A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background/objectives: Adherence is a major challenge in topical glaucoma therapy, particularly in an African context. We report a pilot study assessing adherence independently for the first time in an African context.

Subjects/methods: Participants with newly diagnosed open-angle glaucoma received a weighed bottle of Lumigan 0.01% with counselling on therapy. The bottles were returned monthly for renewal and weighed on return to estimate drops taken during the period. Data collection was for one year with a short compliance questionnaire.

Results: 11 patients participated. 5 (45%) failed to complete one full year of topical therapy. The overall mean number of drops per eye per day was 1.74 (SD 0.69) for the 6 with one year of monthly returned bottles and controlled IOPs at each visit. Self-perception of compliance in these patients was good.

Conclusion: The signs of poor adherence based on both self-report (previous literature), and in this small-scale study of an objective measure suggest medication may not be the first-line treatment of choice in this environment. Our report does, however, raise the possibility that those patients who return for repeat prescriptions and review are indeed adhering to their treatment regimens.

Keywords: Africa; adherence; glaucoma; medical treatment.

Figure 1

Questionnaire on drug adherence administered to patients.