Abstract

Background: Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and reduced ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) are major risk factors in the development and progression of glaucoma. Although both obesity and prehypertension are risk factors in elevating IOP, very few studies have analyzed the effects of obesity on IOP and OPP in pre-hypertensive individuals.

Aim and Objective: This study aims to assess the effects of body mass index (BMI) on IOP and OPP in pre-hypertensive individuals.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 voluntary participants with prehypertension (systolic blood pressure of 120–139 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of 80–89 mmHg) in the age group of 20–50 years were selected from an ophthalmology clinic in Mysuru. They were categorized into two groups based on their BMI into obese and non-obese pre-hypertensive groups. IOP was recorded using rebound tonometer and OPP was calculated.

Results: Statistically significant elevation in IOP and reduction in OPP values of both the eyes were observed in obese pre-hypertensive group.

Conclusion: Obesity compounds the effect of prehypertension on IOP and OPP probably by early disruption of the autoregulatory mechanisms that maintain constant ocular blood flow. Understanding of the complex relationship between IOP and OPP in obese, pre-hypertensive population might help in preventing the risk of developing glaucoma.

Key words: Body Mass Index; Intraocular Pressure; Ocular Perfusion Pressure; Prehypertension