In a nutshell
This study examined whether poor control of blood glucose levels is associated with increased intraocular pressure in patients with diabetes. The authors concluded that poor control of blood glucose levels may contribute to higher intraocular pressure.
Some background
Chronic high blood glucose levels can result in damage to small blood vessels, leading to the various vascular complications associated with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) occurs when the small blood vessels located at the back of the eye become leaky or blocked and can result in loss of sight. Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the earlier stage of DR in which damage to blood vessels can be visualized.
Patients with diabetes also have a higher risk of developing glaucoma (eye disease which results in nerve damage and loss of vision). The risk of developing glaucoma is higher in patients who have high intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP is the pressure of fluid in the eye. It is thought that high blood glucose levels may increase IOP, therefore contributing to eye complications in diabetes patients.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to identify the association between blood glucose levels and IOP. This study involved 114 type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients who had NPDR. Participants were divided into 2 groups. One group had low IOP (less than 14.5 mmHg). The other group had high IOP (greater than 14.5 mmHg). HbA1c levels (average blood glucose over 3 months) and IOP were measured in all individuals over 2 years.
42 participants had an IOP less than 14.5 mmHg and an average HbA1c of 8.1%. 72 participants had an IOP greater than 14.5 mmHg and an average HbA1c of 9.0%. Participants who had high HbA1c levels rarely had low IOP levels.
The bottom line
This study concluded that high HbA1c levels are associated with higher IOP, indicating that poor control of blood glucose levels may contribute to higher IOP levels.
The fine print
This study only included patients with type 2 diabetes. Further studies should include patients with type 1 diabetes as well.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the strategies which can be taken to reduce HbA1c levels.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Mar 22, 2016
