Rev Bras Oftalmol.2026;85:e0043
Lost gazes? Low adherence to glaucoma treatment in the hinterlands of Paraíba
DOI: 10.37039/1982.8551.20260043
ABSTRACT
Objective:
To analyze how inappropriate pharmacotherapy use influences glaucoma progression in patients from Paraíba’s hinterlands.
Methods:
A field-based, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Frei Damião Specialty Center in Patos (PB), with 104 participants diagnosed with glaucoma. Patients unable to respond or who did not attend the appointments in the past 12 months were excluded. Data collection was conducted in person using three questionnaires: one on clinical and socioeconomic variables and two using the Morisky scale to assess medication adherence.
Results:
Most participants were women with low education, and 55.8% showed poor adherence, citing forgetfulness, financial constraints, and low visual acuity as contributing factors. Follow-up intervals shorter than six months were also linked to poor adherence.
Conclusion:
Glaucoma progression is associated with declining visual function and worsened by social and economic vulnerabilities, revealing regional structural gaps.
