Air pollution linked to increased glaucoma and cataract risks

A large-scale meta-analysis presented at the 44th Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) indicates that air pollution significantly increases the risk of developing glaucoma and cataracts. Researchers from the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital and Research Center analyzed 41 observational studies involving millions of people across East Asia and the United Kingdom.

The study found that individuals living in areas with higher concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) face up to a 70% higher risk of glaucoma. For every significant increase in exposure to fine particulate matter, the risk of glaucoma rises by approximately 8%, while the risk of cataracts increases by about 4%. Experts note that unlike the heart or lungs, the eyes are directly exposed to environmental pollutants through the tear film, conjunctiva, and cornea.

In a separate study, researchers in the United States found that xanthelasma—yellowish deposits around the eyes—may serve as a visible indicator of increased risk for cardiovascular events. Data from over 17,000 individuals suggested that those with these spots had higher rates of myocardial infarction and stroke compared to those without, regardless of blood fat levels.

Additionally, a U.S. study on aging populations with well-controlled HIV found that individuals aged 60 and older face higher risks of certain ocular issues, such as dry eye, cataracts, and uncorrected refractive errors, compared to their HIV-negative peers.