CLINICAL FEATURES AND EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF PRIMARY GLAUCOMA IN THE RURAL AGRICULTURAL POPULATION

Primary glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide and remains a serious public health problem, particularly among rural agricultural populations where early ophthalmologic examination is often limited. The disease usually progresses slowly and asymptomatically during its initial stages, causing many patients to seek medical assistance only after significant optic nerve damage and visual field loss have already developed. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical course of primary glaucoma among the rural agricultural population and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis in preventing visual disability. The study analyzed characteristic clinical manifestations, intraocular pressure changes, visual field defects, and optic nerve alterations observed in patients living in agricultural regions. Particular attention was directed toward occupational and environmental factors such as prolonged sunlight exposure, dusty conditions, physical strain, and limited access to preventive healthcare services. Modern diagnostic methods including tonometry, perimetry, ophthalmoscopy, and optical coherence tomography were evaluated for their effectiveness in identifying glaucoma during earlier stages. The findings demonstrated that delayed diagnosis remains common among rural populations and is strongly associated with insufficient awareness and reduced accessibility of ophthalmologic care. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and helps preserve visual function. Strengthening preventive screening programs and increasing public awareness may substantially reduce glaucoma-related blindness among agricultural workers.

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