Episode 10: Glaucoma Management Five Years From Now

• Global burden of glaucoma: Glaucoma is a significant global health issue with rising prevalence. Predicted to affect 111 million people by 2040,^[1] this highlights the importance of early detection and treatment to mitigate both visual impairment and economic cost.
• Challenges in glaucoma care: Many patients with glaucoma remain undiagnosed worldwide. As an asymptomatic disease, glaucoma often goes unnoticed until symptoms appear, making early diagnosis crucial for effective management.
• Patient education and empowerment: Increasing patient awareness about glaucoma’s silent progression is crucial. Educated patients are more proactive in seeking regular check-ups and understanding treatment options.
• Patient-Centric Care: Patient expectations are evolving with increased access to information. Clinicians must balance patient demands with evidence-based treatment recommendations to ensure optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction.
• Advantages of MIGS: The availability of MIGS, such as trabecular meshwork procedures offered by Elios, presents less invasive options that enable earlier intervention through surgical means. These procedures are noted for their enhanced safety profile and effectiveness in reducing the need for eye drops.
• Improvement in quality of life: While trabeculotomy will always play a crucial role in glaucoma management, the early post-operative recovery of MIGS, along with the reduction of eye drops, appears to positively impact patients’ confidence, demeanour, and overall outlook on life.^[2]

[1] Global Prevalence of Glaucoma and Projections of Glaucoma Burden through 2040

[2] Quality of Life After Combined Cataract and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery in Glaucoma Patients