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Does smoking affect intraocular pressure? Findings from the Blue Mountains Eye Study
Anne J Lee1, Elena Rochtchina, Jie Jin Wang
1Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Vision Research, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Hawkesbury Road, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
Journal of Glaucoma
|June 5, 2003
Summary
Current smoking is modestly associated with higher intraocular pressure (IOP). This study found a positive link between smoking and IOP in adults aged 49 and older.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) is a key risk factor for glaucoma.
- Smoking is a prevalent behavior with numerous health implications.
- Understanding factors influencing IOP is crucial for eye health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between smoking and intraocular pressure.
- To determine if smoking is an independent risk factor for elevated IOP.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of 3654 participants aged 49+ from the Blue Mountains Eye Study.
- Intraocular pressure measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry.
- Smoking history collected via trained interviewer; adjustments made for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- Current smokers (15.8%) exhibited slightly higher mean IOP (16.34 mm Hg) than non-smokers (16.04 mm Hg).
- A statistically significant association was found between current smoking and higher IOP (P=0.03), even after adjusting for age and sex.
- This association persisted after further adjustments for variables like blood pressure, diabetes, and myopia (P=0.02).
Conclusions:
- A modest, cross-sectional positive association exists between current smoking and intraocular pressure.
- Smoking may be a contributing factor to elevated IOP in older adults.
- Further research is warranted to explore the causal relationship and mechanisms.