TITLE:
Glaucoma in Africa: Challenges in Diagnosis and Management
AUTHORS:
Amadou Bouba Traoré Hassane, Abdel Nacer Amoukou Issaka, Nouhou Diori Adam, Laminou Laouali, Abba Kaka Yakoura, Amza Abdou
KEYWORDS:
Glaucoma, Africa, Eye Health, Screening, Treatment, Public Health
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Ophthalmology,
Vol.16 No.2,
March
20,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Glaucoma is a major cause of irreversible blindness, with particularly high prevalence and aggressiveness in Africa. Nicknamed the ‘silent thief of sight’, it often progresses without symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the challenges associated with the diagnosis and management of glaucoma on the African continent. Methods: We conducted a systematic review using the websites of national and international health organizations, as well as the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases, using Boolean search operators. Studies and documents published up to January 2025, dealing with the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, costs, and socio-cultural barriers of glaucoma in Africa, were included. Results: The prevalence of glaucoma in Africa is estimated at 5.59%, with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) predominating at 5.07%. The main diagnostic challenges include the late presentation of patients (up to 53% of eyes are already blind at first examination), low awareness of the disease among the general public and non-specialist health personnel, a shortage of qualified personnel, and a lack of diagnostic equipment. There are multiple barriers to treatment: high cost, poor treatment compliance, limited access to medication and surgery, and socio-cultural barriers such as the widespread use of traditional treatments. Conclusion: The fight against glaucoma in Africa is hampered by a complex interaction of epidemiological, structural, economic, and socio-cultural factors. Effective strategies must include strengthening the health system, training staff, large-scale awareness campaigns, and the adoption of innovative technologies.