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Defective visual field tests in chronic heavy smokers.
1Department of Ophthalmology, Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Inönö University, Malatya, Turkey. hepsenif@usa.net
Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica
|February 13, 2001
Summary
Heavy smoking significantly decreases retinal sensitivity in healthy individuals, even without affecting visual acuity. This study highlights potential cumulative effects on retinal and optic nerve function in smokers.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Cigarette smoking is a widespread habit with numerous detrimental health effects.
- The impact of smoking on visual function, particularly the retina and optic nerve, warrants further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess visual field changes in healthy, chronic, heavy cigarette smokers.
- To quantify differences in retinal sensitivity between smokers and non-smokers.
Main Methods:
- Central 30-2 threshold visual field tests were performed on 24 smokers and 16 non-smokers.
- Quantitative perimetric indices (e.g., mean deviation, pattern standard deviation) were analyzed.
- Visual field defects and retinal sensitivity were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Smokers exhibited relative to absolute scotomas within the central 20-30 degrees.
- Significant differences (p<0.05) in quantitative perimetric indices were observed between smokers and non-smokers.
- Smokers demonstrated both diffuse and localized decreases in retinal sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Chronic heavy smoking leads to decreased retinal sensitivity in healthy individuals, despite normal visual acuity.
- These changes may result from cumulative effects on retinal and/or optic nerve function.
- The findings suggest subclinical visual impairment in smokers, potentially preceding clinically evident optic neuropathy.
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