New patient survey unveils dissatisfaction with glaucoma treatment

Image credit: AdobeStock/StudioRomantic

The Preservative Freedom Coalition’s recent Glaucoma Patient Experience survey has unveiled an urgent need for improved communication between patients with glaucoma and their eye care providers in terms of glaucoma management and diagnosis.¹ The nationwide survey included 558 participants 18 years or older diagnosed with glaucoma or ocular hypertension, according to a news release.

"The most surprising revelation from the Preservative Freedom Glaucoma Patient Experience Survey was that the majority of patients with glaucoma were not aware of their preservative-free options, despite their availability on the market,” said Elena Sturman, president and CEO of The Glaucoma Foundation and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition, in the release. “This is crucial because it reinforces the importance of having these conversations with patients and empowering them to take control of their ocular health, potentially mitigating side effects."

More than half of the participants of the survey reported living with their condition for 7 years or more, with more than 75% indicating early/mild or moderate stages as described by their physician. The data for the online survey was collected between November 21, 2024 and January 5, 2025, with participants recruited through primary research recruitment agency Cashew Research or through The Glaucoma Foundation mailing list.¹

Findings from the survey uncovered that glaucoma patients are significantly concerned about their treatments and the future of their eye health, with only 1 in 5 respondents stating that they are satisfied with their current treatment. As many as one-third of respondents reported stopping, skipping, or requesting a change to medication due to undesirable impacts or negative effects, with patients expressing concerns about the toxicity of preservatives (60%) and disease progression (39%). According to the release, these findings indicate that there may be an openness to discussing new treatment options for these patients.¹

"Our survey highlights the vital role of communication in eye care. With over 60% unaware of preservative-free options and many reporting symptoms from preservative use, it’s imperative that we, as eye care professionals, take the lead in educating our patients about these treatment options,” said Monique Barbour, MD, MHA, ophthalmologist and medical director and CEO of Clear Vue Eye Care and Surgery Center, and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition, in the release. “Encouraging open conversations ensures comprehensive patient care and ensures we are addressing the needs of that patient specifically."

Additionally, almost two-thirds of patients reported that they were unaware of preservative-free alternatives for treatment. Still, 62% of participants reported that they experience symptoms like gritty eyes and discomfort, which are often associated with the use of preservatives.¹

Despite their reported dissatisfaction, the majority of patients (82%) expressed significant trust in their physicians. However, nearly half of patients not using preservative-free options reported a lack of alternatives recommended by their eye care providers. The release cited that continuous dialogue throughout a patient’s treatment will remain essential, as patients reported an increase in treatment considerations between 1-3 years and 10-20 years after their diagnosis.¹

“As medical professionals, we are the caretakers of eye health, and we have the responsibility to preserve and protect our patients’ vision,” said Jacob Lang, OD, medical director for Dry Eye Services at Associated Eye Care, president of the Intrepid Eye Society, and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition, in the release. “Innovative care means thinking beyond short-term solutions and considering the individual needs of the patient. By integrating preservative-free treatments, we advance patient care, help reduce preservative-related side effects and support long-lasting eye health."

Reference:

1. ADDING MULTIMEDIA Preservative Freedom Coalition Survey reveals urgent need for enhanced patient-physician communication in glaucoma. News release. Businesswire. March 10, 2025. Accessed March 12, 2025. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250310684433/en/Preservative-Freedom-Coalition-Survey-Reveals-Urgent-Need-for-Enhanced-Patient-Physician-Communication-in-Glaucoma