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Ocular complications of boxing
M Bianco1, A S Vaiano, F Colella
1Sports Medicine, Catholic University, Lgo F Vito, 1, Rome 00168, Italy. massibianco@tin.it
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|January 25, 2005
Summary
Boxing does not significantly increase severe eye injuries. However, boxers show a higher prevalence of milder ocular lesions, particularly affecting the conjunctiva and cornea, necessitating regular eye check-ups.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sports Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Ocular injuries are a concern in contact sports like boxing.
- Understanding the prevalence and severity of eye lesions in boxers is crucial for athlete safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of ocular injuries in a large cohort of boxers over 16 years.
- To identify the most severe, vision-threatening eye lesions in professional and amateur boxers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of clinical records from the Italian Boxing Federation (1982-1998).
- Ophthalmological examinations of 956 boxers (10,697 total examinations) and 80 age-matched controls.
- Data collected included boxing history, visual acuity, visual fields, and comprehensive eye examinations.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of ocular alterations was 40.9% in boxers versus 3.1% in controls (p<0.0001).
- Serious ocular findings (affecting angle, lens, macula, peripheral retina) were not significantly different between boxers (5.6%) and controls (3.1%).
- Milder lesions, especially conjunctival and corneal, were significantly more common in boxers.
Conclusions:
- Boxing does not lead to a higher prevalence of severe ocular lesions compared to the general population.
- The notable prevalence of milder eye lesions in boxers underscores the importance of consistent ophthalmological surveillance.
- Regular eye examinations are recommended for boxers to monitor and manage potential ocular damage.