The impact of obesity or overweight on the risk of glaucoma: a meta-analysis

Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss. Preventing the development of glaucoma has become a focus of attention. Whether obesity or overweight is related to the glaucoma development still remains a matter of debate.

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of obesity or overweight on the risk of glaucoma.

A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for relevant studies published up to 24 March, 2025. Original studies reporting the relationship between obesity or overweight and glaucoma risk were selected. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on odds ratios (OR) or hazard ratios (HR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). The study quality was assessed using an eight-component rating scale.

Thirteen studies were included. Individuals with obesity or overweight had a 60% higher risk of glaucoma compared with the normal-weight population (OR: 1.60 [95% CI: 1.19-2.17], p = 0.002), while the association was not significant for HR values (HR: 1.14 [95% CI: 1.00-1.31], p = 0.058). Subgroup analysis revealed that individuals with obesity or overweight in developed countries had a 91% higher risk of glaucoma (OR: 1.91 [95% CI: 1.44-2.52], p < 0.001). In addition, obesity or overweight in men was associated with a higher risk of glaucoma (OR: 2.14 [95% CI: 1.24-3.69], p = 0.006).

Obesity or overweight may increase the risk of glaucoma in term of OR values. Obese or overweight individuals in developed countries, especially obese men, appear to be associated with a higher risk of glaucoma. Maintaining weight within the normal range may be an effective measure to prevent glaucoma.