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Undetected Vision Problems Affect Quality of Life and Wallets
February 2006 - According to a study published in the January issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, delaying progression of glaucoma (an eye disease of the optic nerve) from advancing to later stages can prevent vision problems and substantially reduce medical costs.
Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D., from Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C., and colleagues analyzed over 150 records of patients with various types of glaucoma and related vision problems. The researchers found that as the eye disease severity worsened, visits to an eye doctor, glaucoma surgeries and medication use increased. Researchers also found that the "average direct cost of treatment ranged from $623 per patient per year for glaucoma suspects or patients with early-stages of this eye disease to $2,511 per patient per year for patients with end-stages of this eye disease. Medication costs composed the largest proportion of total direct cost for all stages of eye disease."
Approximately 2.2 million Americans age 40 and older have been diagnosed with glaucoma, and estimates are that another two million do not even know they have it. "The incidence of glaucoma is expected to rise with the growth of the elderly population. Glaucoma costs the U.S. health care system an estimated $2.5 billion annually: $1.9 billion in direct costs and $0.6 billion in indirect costs," the authors write.
In addition, the researchers found that in the earlier stages of glaucoma, symptoms are generally unnoticeable which results in delayed diagnosis. While glaucoma is not preventable or curable, it can be slowed. The earlier glaucoma is detected, the less damage it can cause and the longer you will have your vision. This is why the Vision Council of America recommends regular eye exams for your whole family, even if no vision problems are noticed. To find an eye doctor in your area, use the Check Yearly Doctor Locator to the left.