Overdiagnosis and overtreatment are growing issues in glaucoma, leading to unnecessary tests, treatment, and anxiety for patients. Ophthalmologists must be cautious about diagnosing glaucoma and refrain from rushing into a diagnosis. Factors such as cost, side effects, and access to disability insurance contribute to the problem. In addition, anxiety and depression, especially in younger patients, are concerns due to the fear of blindness. More studies are needed to address overdiagnosis, especially with the rise of telemedicine and home testing. Implementing risk models like polygenic risk scores may help identify high-risk patients. Failure to address this issue could lead to external pressures from policymakers.
Source link
Ophthalmologists must find solutions for overdiagnosis, overtreatment in glaucoma
