Comparison Of Prevalence And Determinants Of Glaucoma In Rural And Urban Communities In Abia State.

Introduction: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, and this is not as good for people of African Descent. Understanding the factors associated with glaucoma in particular places is important to public health action to lower blindness. Method: The study evaluated the prevalence and Knowledge of glaucoma among rural and urban dwellers in Abia State, Nigeria, using a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among 468 adults, of which 234 of the respondents were chosen from the rural area and the urban area, respectively. Glaucoma was diagnosed based on clinical eye examination, and relevant information was obtained by an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Results: Data were analyzed with the use of descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression with statistical significance at p < 0.05. The results indicated that glaucoma was more prevalent in rural communities than in urban communities. The prevalence was 11.0% in the rural area as compared with 4.7% in the urban area, and this was statistically significant. Urban residents were also more knowledgeable and aware of glaucoma compared to rural residents. Important predictors of glaucoma were living in a rural area, age 60 years and above, family history of glaucoma, hypertension, and use of unprescribed eye drops. Higher education decreased the risk of glaucoma. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for health education, screening in the community, and improved access to affordable eye care, particularly in rural communities.