Association between oxidative balance score and glaucoma in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

To investigate the association between Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) and glaucoma risk.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005-2008), we analyzed 2,615 participants aged ≥40 years. OBS was calculated from 15 antioxidant and 5 pro-oxidant components, including dietary nutrients and lifestyle factors. Glaucoma was identified through self-reported diagnosis and retinal imaging. Survey-weighted logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to assess associations.

Higher OBS was associated with lower glaucoma risk (adjusted OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94-1.00). Participants in the highest OBS quartile showed 51% lower odds of glaucoma compared to the lowest quartile (adjusted OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.27-0.90). The protective effect was more pronounced among middle-aged adults (40-60 years; OR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.86-0.95) and males (OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90-0.97).

Higher OBS were associated with lower glaucoma prevalence, particularly among middle-aged adults and males, suggesting potential benefits of maintaining oxidative balance in glaucoma prevention.