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Statin use and incident nuclear cataract.
Barbara E K Klein1, Ronald Klein, Kristine E Lee
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53726, USA. kleinb@epi.ophth.wisc.edu
JAMA
|June 22, 2006
Summary
Statin use may reduce the risk of developing nuclear cataracts, a common age-related eye condition. This study found a lower incidence of nuclear cataract in statin users compared to non-users.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Statins are prescribed for lipid reduction and possess antioxidant properties.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in nuclear cataract development.
- The link between statin use and cataract incidence requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between statin use and the incidence of nuclear cataract.
- The study was conducted in a midwestern US community.
Main Methods:
- The Beaver Dam Eye Study, a population-based, longitudinal observational study.
- 1299 participants at risk for nuclear cataract were analyzed over a 5-year period.
- Cataract incidence was determined by grading photographs taken during examinations.
Main Results:
- A 5-year incidence of nuclear cataract was 12.2% in statin users versus 17.2% in non-users (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.36-0.84).
- In a subgroup of never smokers without diabetes, statin use was associated with a 60% reduced risk of nuclear cataract (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18-0.90).
- No significant association was found for cortical or posterior subcapsular cataracts.
Conclusions:
- Statin use in the general population is linked to a reduced risk of nuclear cataract.
- Nuclear cataract is the most prevalent form of age-related cataract.
- Findings suggest a potential protective effect of statins against age-related nuclear cataract.
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