Good news for anyone concerned about their eye health! Researchers have been tirelessly working to discover if there is a strong connection between obesity and eye health. This is because weight control is one of the most effective modifiable factors for human diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. And if we could identify the specific mechanisms that link body weight to eye conditions, it could provide us with valuable insights into related conditions and possible therapeutic targets.
So far, obesity has been linked to cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. And now, a new study has added glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness globally, to the list. Researchers found a significant connection between body weight and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of glaucoma. They also discovered that both obesity and being underweight were associated with a higher risk of POAG, according to their thorough analysis of previous studies.
Furthermore, the researchers looked at the genetic links between obesity and POAG and identified several genes associated with both POAG and body mass index. This has provided some particularly promising targets for further investigation.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between obesity and POAG, this study provides important insights into the connection between our overall health and our eyesight. So, whether you’re trying to lose weight or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, taking care of your body could also be a key factor in protecting your vision. Let’s make healthy choices for our bodies and our eyes!
Want to read more? Follow this link: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24043925