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Association between Graves' ophthalmopathy and smoking
B Shine1, P Fells, O M Edwards
1Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
Lancet (London, England)
|May 26, 1990
Summary
Smokers are more common in patients with Graves
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
Background:
- Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland.
- Graves' ophthalmopathy is a common manifestation of Graves' disease, causing eye complications.
- Smoking is a known risk factor for various health conditions, but its specific role in Graves' disease and ophthalmopathy requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between smoking and the presence and severity of Graves' ophthalmopathy.
- To compare smoking prevalence in patients with Graves' disease (with and without ophthalmopathy) and control individuals.
Main Methods:
- A postal survey was conducted among patients diagnosed with Graves' disease.
- Participants were questioned regarding their smoking history.
- Smoking status and intensity were compared between groups with and without ophthalmopathy, and with a control group.
Main Results:
- A significantly higher proportion of smokers was observed in the Graves' ophthalmopathy group compared to both the Graves' thyrotoxicosis-only group and the control group.
- Patients exhibiting severe ophthalmopathic signs demonstrated significantly higher tobacco consumption than those with milder eye conditions.
Conclusions:
- Smoking is strongly associated with the presence of Graves' ophthalmopathy.
- Increased tobacco consumption correlates with the severity of eye manifestations in Graves' disease.
- Smoking cessation should be strongly advised for patients with Graves' disease, particularly those with or at risk of ophthalmopathy.
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