Statins May Protect People From Developing Glaucoma
A large-scale study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that statin use is associated with a lower risk of developing glaucoma and needing surgery. Researchers analyzed data from 165 million individuals to reach these findings.
Why it matters
This research could influence clinical approaches to managing glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, by repurposing common cholesterol medication.
People with glaucoma who are taking statins appear less likely to need surgery
Taking statins is linked to a lower risk of developing glaucoma and a reduced chance of it getting worse, suggest the findings of research published online in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.
People who already have glaucoma who are taking statins appear less likely to need stronger treatments like extra eye drops or surgery to keep it under control, the US study finds.
Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, is caused by permanent damage to the optic nerve.
Statins are prescribed to lower cholesterol levels but studies have indicated that they may also prevent or slow nerve cell death. Their potential role in preventing or slowing down glaucoma is poorly understood.
To strengthen the evidence base, researchers searched a large global database covering 165 million individuals.
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