Is there any connection between choroidal thickness and obesity?

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vascular Biology
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Obesity is a global epidemic linked to systemic health issues.
• Ocular vasculature health is less understood in obese individuals.
• The choroid, a vascular layer in the eye, may be affected by obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review micro-structural changes in choroidal thickness due to obesity.
• To explore the physiological and anatomical basis of these changes.
• To clarify conflicting findings on obesity and choroidal thickness.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on obesity and choroidal thickness.
• Searched PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus.
• Included original publications until mid-2021.

Main Results:

• Previous studies show an association between obesity and choroidal thickness.
• However, the direction and nature of this association are inconsistent.
• Further research is needed to understand obesity's impact on choroidal morphology.

Conclusions:

• Obesity's effects on ocular vasculature, specifically the choroid, require more investigation.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for managing ocular health in obese populations.
• This review highlights the need for consistent research methodologies.