Glaucoma Can be Avoided by Exercising

Glaucoma is a condition of gradual loss of vision due to pressure on the eyeball increases. By doing physical exercise will have lasting impact on decreasing the risk factor of glaucoma.

Researchers examined the relationship between physical activity and the risk of developing glaucoma in 5,650 men and women aged 48 to 90 years living in the UK. Using a health and lifestyle questionnaire, participants rated their physical activity and combined with the conditions of work and leisure.

From 2006 to 2010, the study participants were examined eye pressure, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were measured. The

results showed that in moderate physical exercise performed approximately 15 years previously associated with a decreased risk of glaucoma by 25%.

"It appears that the risk of glaucoma is largely determined by the fitness of the heart and blood pressure. We can not comment on the cause, but there is definitely a relationship between lifestyle and factors which increase the risk of glaucoma," said author Paul J. Foster, MD PhD, FRCS (Ed), of the University College London Institute of Ophthalmology.

According to the researchers, although there have been a large number of studies that examined the effects of physical activity on the pressure in the eye and blood pressure, this study is the first to reveal the relationship between physical activity and risk of glaucoma.

"Previously, the risk factors of glaucoma is modified only eye pressure and is associated with treatment medication, laser or surgery. We believe that our research can drive new ways to reduce the risk of glaucoma, namely through keeping lifestyle remains active. This can alter the risk of glaucoma and many other serious health problems, "concluded Foster was quoted as saying Eurekalert.org,