The Shadow of Blindness: The Impact of Blindness Anxiety on Quality of Life and Adherence in Glaucoma Patients (Atena Editora)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Glaucoma, known as the "silent thief of sight," leads to irreversible blindness if undetected or untreated early, impacting millions worldwide, notably in regions like Brazil with high prevalence rates due to specific healthcare challenges. The disease, mainly asymptomatic until advanced stages, exacerbates the widespread fear of blindness, profoundly affecting individuals' mental and emotional well-being. This fear, intensified among glaucoma patients, can lead to anxiety disorders and significantly hinder treatment adherence, underscoring the importance of early detection, effective communication, and psychological support to manage the condition and mitigate its impacts on life and mental health. OBJETIVE Analyze and describe the main aspects of the impact of blindness anxiety on quality of life and adherence in glaucoma patients the last years. METHODS This is a narrative review, included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases, using the following databases: PubMed, sciELO and Medline, using as descriptors: “glaucoma” AND “anxiety” AND “blindness” in the last years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Blindness anxiety significantly influences the psychological and physical well-being of individuals with glaucoma, contributing to decreased quality of life and treatment adherence. Research highlights that a considerable portion of these patients suffer from anxiety and depression levels comparable to those with other chronic diseases, with variance depending on demographic factors like age and disease severity. This anxiety can lead to social withdrawal, impacting daily activities and independence. Addressing this through clear communication, personalized interventions, and support systems like cognitive-behavioral therapy and education programs can improve engagement and overall mental health. It is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize and address these concerns, enhancing the quality of life for those living with glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Blindness anxiety significantly impacts the well-being of glaucoma patients, affecting their quality of life, social interactions, and adherence to treatment regimens. This anxiety is comparable to that experienced in other chronic conditions and is influenced by various demographic and psychological factors. Addressing this anxiety through regular screenings, effective communication, and therapeutic interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy and support groups can markedly improve patients' mental health and overall quality of life. Hence, a comprehensive approach encompassing psychological support and patient education is vital in the management of glaucoma.