Glaucoma Awareness and Its Determinants in Korea: Findings from the 2017-2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Purpose: We investigated the level of glaucoma awareness and identified associated factors among Korean adults aged ≥40 years using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).Methods: Among the 16,154 individuals aged ≥40 years who underwent ophthalmic examinations in the 2017-2020 KNHANES, 825 participants diagnosed with glaucoma by an ophthalmologist were included. Glaucoma awareness was defined as a self-reported history of physician-diagnosed glaucoma. Associations between glaucoma awareness and sociodemographic variables including age, sex, education level, income level, and recent ophthalmic examination were evaluated using chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses.Results: Among the 16,154 participants, 825 (5.1%) were diagnosed with glaucoma. However, only 19.8% were aware of their condition and 14.0% reported were receiving treatment. In logistic regression analysis, older age was significantly associated with greater awareness (≥80 years vs. 40-49 years; <i>p</i> < 0.001). Recent ophthalmic examination within 1 year was significantly associated with higher awareness (≤1 year vs. 1-3 years; <i>p</i> < 0.001). Sex, education level, and income level were not independently associated with glaucoma awareness.Conclusions: Although glaucoma awareness among Korean adults has more than doubled compared to the 8.0% reported in previous KNHANES analyses, over 80% of affected individuals remain unaware of their diagnosis. Awareness was significantly associated with older age and recent ophthalmic examination emphasizing the importance of regular eye screening. Considering the anticipated rise in glaucoma prevalence, incorporating systematic ophthalmic screening into the national health check-up program should be considered to enhance early detection and management.