Lowered blood pressure reduced IOP as well, study finds

A reduction in systemic blood pressure over a 5-year period was found to be associated with a decrease in IOP as well in a population-based study. Researchers in the study suggested that, if these findings are confirmed by others, new paths may open for reducing the risk of open-angle glaucoma.

Barbara E.K. Klein, MD, MPH, and colleagues in the Beaver Dam Eye Study analyzed data on IOP, systemic blood pressure and use of blood pressure medication in study participants at baseline (from 1988 to 1990) and at 5-year follow-up.

IOP was significantly correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressures at both baseline and follow up, the researchers said. They found significant direct correlations between changes in systemic blood pressures over time and changes in IOP.

For every 10 mm Hg increase in systolic pressure, IOP increased 0.21 mm Hg. For every 10 mm Hg increase in diastolic pressure, there was a 0.43 mm Hg increase in IOP. A decrease in systolic or diastolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg over the course of 5 years was significantly associated with decreased IOP.

Adjusting for diabetes or medication use did not alter the findings, the researchers said.

The study is published in the March issue of the British Journal of Ophthalmology.