Development of Components for A Glaucoma Screening Programme in Malaysia: A Qualitative Study
10.31436/ imjm.v25i02/2875
- Author:
Hui WX WX
1
;
Sharanjeet-Kaur S
2
;
Hairol M M
3
;
Abd Rahman MH
2
;
Nasaruddin RA
1
;
Md Isa Z
4
;
Ismail R
5
;
Che Hamzah J
1
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2. Centre for Rehabilitation & Special Needs Studies (iCaReRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3. Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
4. Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
5. Sentul Health Clinic, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
glaucoma;
screening;
interviews;
policy;
Malaysia
- From:
The International Medical Journal Malaysia
2026;25(No. 2):55-63
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Glaucoma is a leading cause of permanent blindness, often going
undetected in its early, asymptomatic stages, especially in older age groups. In
Malaysia, glaucoma is a growing public health issue due to an increase in the ageing
population. While screening is essential for early glaucoma detection, the most
suitable strategy for Malaysia's healthcare system remains unclear. This study
explored the perspectives of eye healthcare professionals on the most suitable
glaucoma screening strategies for Malaysia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This
qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 19 eye health professionals
(ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, ophthalmic technicians, and assistant
medical officers) practicing in the Klang Valley. The interviews were conducted
face-to-face in their workplace or via a video conferencing platform. All interviews
were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Six
major themes were identified: types of glaucoma screening programmes, accessible
screening locations, target screening population, instruments and use of digital
technology, trained personnel, and referral criteria. Opportunistic case finding and
population-based programmes were identified as the glaucoma screening
programmes in which trained personnel conducted screening at accessible
locations. Glaucoma screening for high-risk individuals was recommended,
focusing on visual acuity testing, tonometry, anterior chamber angle assessment,
funduscopy, perimetry, and retinal nerve fibre assessment. A lack of clear referral
criteria due to low awareness and poor implementation of existing guidelines was
observed. CONCLUSION: Further investigations are required to identify the best
combination of components for glaucoma screening. This will enable policymakers
to develop an effective glaucoma screening programme in Malaysia.
- Full text:2026041011003879016OA+2875.pdf
