HK’s glaucoma rates exceed projections, prompting calls for AI-powered screening

A study by the University of Hong Kong (HKU) has revealed that glaucoma prevalence in the city is significantly higher than previously estimated, highlighting a critical need for improved screening systems. 

The findings come from a two-year artificial intelligence screening program conducted in partnership with Orbis, which provided free eye examinations to more than 5,800 residents aged 50 and above.

The research found that 11.6 percent of participants showed signs of optic nerve degeneration, with 6.9 percent specifically diagnosed with glaucoma—a rate that surpasses both local projections and China’s broader epidemiological estimates. 

These results suggest a substantial number of undetected cases in Hong Kong’s population, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

Dr. Kenneth Li, Honorary Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at HKU, explained that AI technology played a crucial role in efficiently and accurately identifying high-risk cases.

The system analyzes hundreds of retinal images in a single examination, achieving an impressive 90 percent accuracy rate. 

This approach could be integrated into public hospital outpatient services to streamline referrals from general practitioners and optometrists, significantly reducing wait times.

Currently, some patients face delays of up to two years for specialist appointments in Hospital Authority eye clinics. 

Li said the goal is to cut waiting times to under two months within the next two years by implementing AI-assisted triage systems.