Intraocular Pressure and Its Association with Ocular Biometrics in Children and Adolescents - 10 PLADs, China,

Ran Qin1,2,3, Yang Liu1,2, Yan Chen3,4

  • 1Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.

China CDC Weekly
|May 18, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Intraocular pressure (IOP) in children follows a biphasic pattern, peaking around age 12. This study highlights sex-specific IOP differences during puberty, crucial for pediatric glaucoma prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Health
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Intraocular pressure (IOP) is vital for maintaining eye health and preventing glaucoma.
  • Developmental IOP patterns and links to refractive errors in children require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the developmental trajectory of intraocular pressure (IOP) in children.
  • To examine sex-specific differences in IOP during puberty.
  • To analyze the relationship between IOP and myopia across different school grades.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal study analyzing IOP measurements in a pediatric cohort.
  • Grade-stratified analyses to assess IOP trends and myopia associations.
  • Statistical analysis to identify significant differences in IOP based on sex and age.

Main Results:

  • A biphasic IOP trajectory was observed, with a peak around grade 6 (age 12).
  • Pubertal changes revealed a reversal in sexual dimorphism, with girls exhibiting higher IOP than boys from grade 10 onwards.
  • The study challenged a uniform IOP-myopia causality, indicating complex interactions.

Conclusions:

  • Findings advocate for grade- and sex-specific IOP monitoring in children for effective glaucoma prevention.
  • Emphasizes the need for further research into IOP dynamics to refine myopia management strategies.
  • Supports promoting overall ocular health through targeted pediatric eye care.
Abstract