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Relationship Between Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Glaucoma Risk in Patients With Dry Eye Disease: A Multinational
Ssu-Yu Pan1,2, Yi-Jing Sheen1,3,4,5, Chien-Hsiang Weng6,7
1School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Translational Vision Science & Technology
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may reduce glaucoma risk in individuals with dry eye disease. This study found lower rates of glaucoma and ocular hypertension in patients taking omega-3s compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition.
- Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.
- The potential link between DED management and glaucoma risk is an area of active research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and the risk of developing glaucoma in patients diagnosed with dry eye disease.
- To evaluate the impact of omega-3s on various types of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study analyzed data from a multinational database (2013-2023).
- Adults with DED were categorized into omega-3 supplemented and control groups.
- Propensity score matching was used to control for confounding factors, followed by a 5-year observation period.
Main Results:
- The study included 14,168 participants.
- Omega-3 supplementation was associated with significantly lower risks of total glaucoma, ocular hypertension, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), normal-tension glaucoma, and primary angle-closure glaucoma.
- Reduced risks were consistent across various demographic subgroups, including older adults and females.
Conclusions:
- Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation shows potential in reducing glaucoma risk among individuals with dry eye disease.
- Clinical use of omega-3s in DED patients may help mitigate overall disease burden.
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