Impact of online learning during COVID-19 pandemic on digital device related ocular health.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ocular health related to digital device usage among university students in Lebanon. Design: A cross-sectional design was utilized to examine the association between the pandemic and ocular health. Participants: A total of 255 university students in Lebanon participated in the study, selected based on their enrollment during the pandemic. Methods: An online survey assessed participants' digital device usage, awareness of digital eye strain, and experienced symptoms. The study addressed the relationship between symptom frequency and screen time, especially in their connection to the pandemic and online learning. Results: Prior to the pandemic, the majority of participants (73.0 %) were unaware of digital eye strain. Following the transition to online learning, nearly half of the participants (47.0 %) reported using digital devices for 12 or more hours. The majority (92.0 %) experienced a substantial increase in daily digital device usage for learning, with an average increase of 3-5 h. Symptoms of digital eye strain, including headache, burning of eyes, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, worsening of vision and dryness of the eyes intensified in both frequency and severity during the pandemic and online learning period. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of promoting healthy habits and implementing preventive measures to reduce the prevalence of digital eye strain symptoms among university students. Healthcare professionals and public health authorities should educate individuals on strategies to alleviate digital eye strain, considering the persistent reliance on digital devices beyond the pandemic.

Melatonin: Unveiling the functions and implications in ocular health.

Melatonin, a versatile hormone produced by the pineal gland, has garnered considerable scientific interest due to its diverse functions. In the eye, melatonin regulates a variety of key processes like inhibiting angiogenesis by reducing vascular endothelial growth factor levels and protecting the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) integrity by enhancing tight junction proteins and pericyte coverage. Melatonin also maintains cell health by modulating autophagy via the Sirt1/mTOR pathways, reduces inflammation, promotes antioxidant enzyme activity, and regulates intraocular pressure fluctuations. Additionally, melatonin protects retinal ganglion cells by modulating aging and inflammatory pathways. Understanding melatonin's multifaceted functions in ocular health could expand the knowledge of ocular pathogenesis, and shed new light on therapeutic approaches in ocular diseases. In this review, we summarize the current evidence of ocular functions and therapeutic potential of melatonin and describe its roles in angiogenesis, BRB integrity maintenance, and modulation of various eye diseases, which leads to a conclusion that melatonin holds promising treatment potential for a wide range of ocular health conditions.

Evaluating Intraocular Pressure Alterations during Large Muscle Group Isometric Exercises with Varying Head and Body Positions.

Performing physical exercise affects intraocular pressure, and its elevation and fluctuations are the main risk factors for glaucoma development or progression. The aim of this study was to examine the acute alterations in intraocular pressure (IOP) during four unweighted isometric exercises and to determine whether the different head and body positions taken during exercise additionally affect IOP. Twelve healthy volunteers between the ages of 25 and 33 performed four isometric exercises: wall sit in neutral head and body position, elbow plank in prone head and body position, reverse plank in supine head and body position for 1 min, and right-side plank in lateral head and body position for 30 s. Intraocular pressure was measured by applanation portable tonometry, before performing the exercise, immediately after exercise completion, and after five minutes of rest. A significant acute increase in intraocular pressure was found as a response to the performance of the elbow plank (p < 0.01), the reverse plank (p < 0.001), and the right-side plank (p < 0.001). The wall sit exercise did not reveal a statistically significant IOP elevation (p = 0.232). Different head and body positions had no significant additional influence on IOP (F (3,33) = 0.611; p = 0.613), even though the alteration in IOP was found to be greater in exercises with a lower head and body position. Our data revealed that IOP elevation seems to be affected by the performance of the elbow plank, the reverse plank, and the right-side plank; and not by the wall sit exercise. More different isometric exercises should be examined to find ones that are safe to perform for glaucoma patients.

Navigating the Unknown: A Comprehensive Review of Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome.

Spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects astronauts during and after their missions in space. This comprehensive review delves into the various aspects of SANS, providing a thorough understanding of its definition, historical context, clinical presentation, epidemiology, diagnostic techniques, preventive measures, and management strategies. Various ocular and neurological symptoms, including visual impairment, optic disc edema, choroidal folds, retinal changes, and increased intracranial pressure, characterize SANS. While microgravity is a primary driver of SANS, other factors like radiation exposure, genetic predisposition, and environmental conditions within spacecraft contribute to its development. The duration of space missions is a significant factor, with longer missions associated with a higher incidence of SANS. This review explores the diagnostic criteria and variability in SANS presentation, shedding light on early detection and management challenges. The epidemiology section provides insights into the occurrence frequency, affected astronauts' demographics, and differences between long-term and short-term missions. Diagnostic tools, including ophthalmological assessments and imaging techniques, are crucial in monitoring astronaut health during missions. Preventive measures are vital in mitigating the impact of SANS. Current strategies, ongoing research in prevention methods, lifestyle and behavioral factors, and the potential role of artificial gravity are discussed in detail. Additionally, the review delves into interventions, potential pharmacological treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term management considerations for astronauts with SANS. The conclusion underscores the importance of continued research in SANS, addressing ongoing challenges, and highlighting unanswered questions. With the expansion of human space exploration, understanding and managing SANS is imperative to ensure the health and well-being of astronauts during long-duration missions. This review is a valuable resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and space agencies striving to enhance our knowledge and address the complexities of SANS.

A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Observational Study to Analyze the Effects of Moderate High Altitude on Ocular Health.

Objectives: Prolonged exposure to hypoxia at high altitudes can affect the eyes through various mechanisms, culminating in reduced vision. Multiple studies on this subject have focused on the ocular effects of high altitude on intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal thickness, and the retina. However, there is a lack of literature on the effects of 'moderate high altitude (2000-3000 m)' on the eyes. Hence, we designed our study to determine the impact of moderate high altitude on the eyes. Methods: We recruited two age and gender-matched groups of 250 research participants, each at moderate high altitude (Group A) and plains (Group B), respectively, to determine the effects of moderate high altitude on ocular health, if any. Results: We found a statistically significant increase in dry eye in Group A. We also found four cases of central serous retinopathy and one case of central retinal vein occlusion in Group A. There was no statistically significant change in visual acuity, IOP, or central corneal thickness. Conclusion: There is a vast lacuna in the literature on this particular altitude range, and further studies are required to confirm our findings. It is also recommended that lubricant eye drops be advised as a standard prophylactic measure for all individuals traveling and staying at moderate high altitude.

Current Insights on the Photoprotective Mechanism of the Macular Carotenoids, Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Safety, Efficacy and Bio-Delivery.

Ocular health has emerged as one of the major issues of global health concern with a decline in quality of life in an aging population, in particular and rise in the number of associated morbidities and mortalities. One of the chief reasons for vision impairment is oxidative damage inflicted to photoreceptors in rods and cone cells by blue light as well as UV radiation. The scenario has been aggravated by unprecedented rise in screen-time during the COVID and post-COVID era. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are oxygenated carotenoids with proven roles in augmentation of ocular health largely by virtue of their antioxidant properties and protective effects against photobleaching of retinal pigments, age-linked macular degeneration, cataract, and retinitis pigmentosa. These molecules are characterized by their characteristic yellow-orange colored pigmentation and are found in significant amounts in vegetables such as corn, spinach, broccoli, carrots as well as fish and eggs. Unique structural signatures including tetraterpenoid skeleton with extensive conjugation and the presence of hydroxyl groups at the end rings have made these molecules evolutionarily adapted to localize in the membrane of the photoreceptor cells and prevent their free radical induced peroxidation. Apart from the benefits imparted to ocular health, lutein and zeaxanthin are also known to improve cognitive function, cardiovascular physiology, and arrest the development of malignancy. Although abundant in many natural sources, bioavailability of these compounds is low owing to their long aliphatic backbones. Under the circumstances, there has been a concerted effort to develop vegetable oil-based carriers such as lipid nano-emulsions for therapeutic administration of carotenoids. This review presents a comprehensive update of the therapeutic potential of the carotenoids along with the challenges in achieving an optimized delivery tool for maximizing their effectiveness inside the body.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the two most abundant natural xanthophylls (oxygenated carotenoids) with a linear C40 tetraterpene/isoprenoid lycopene-based backbone.Presence of extensive conjugation (more than 10 double bonds) enable these molecules to act as accessory light harvesting pigments apart from chlorophyll.More importantly, the xanthophylls prevent photobleaching of the pigments and proteins in the Light Harvesting Complex (LHC) by sequestering the excess unutilized blue light and preventing triplet chlorophyll associated formation of Reactive Oxygen Species.In human eye, lutein, zeaxanthin along with mesozeaxanthin constitute the three macular pigments forming the so called "yellow spot" of the macula and are implicated in maintaining the redox balance, homeostasis and normal physiology of the eyes.However, unlike plants, xanthophylls must be acquired from dietary sources such as colored leafy vegetables and egg yolk.Increase in the number of eye diseases in the aging population coupled with insufficient bioavailability of xanthophylls has mandated the industrial production of supplements enriched in xanthophylls.The bioavailability and delivery of xanthophylls can be significantly enhanced by suspension in a blend of extra-virgin olive oil and other vegetable oils.

Medmont Meridia™: Much More Than a Corneal Topographer.

In recent years, advanced diagnostic instruments have become widely available in optometric practices, offering various functions that optimize clinical information gathering. This article focuses on the Medmont Meridia™, a state-of-the-art multipurpose diagnostic device with corneal topography and cutting-edge features. Corneal topography is pivotal in the early diagnosis of corneal disorders, determining baseline ocular surface assessment, helping in contact lens fitting, and monitoring ocular health over time. The Medmont Meridia boasts Placido-disc-based imaging with extensive corneal coverage. Furthermore, the Meridia accurately measures the horizontal visible iris diameter, pupil diameter, and palpebral fissure width, which assists in making contact lens parameter decisions. Additionally, it offers sagittal height data for scleral lens design and first lens selection, streamlining the fitting process. Beyond its topography capabilities, the Meridia excels as a comprehensive dry eye assessment tool. With features like tear meniscus height, tear film surface quality, and meibography capabilities, it aids in diagnosing dry eye and monitoring its progression. The device also provides customizable dry eye reports with integrated grading scales and questionnaires, making dry eye management, patient education, and compliance more accessible. In conclusion, the Medmont Meridia consolidates a multitude of examination tools in a single instrument, enhancing practice efficiency and elevating patient care and communication. Its versatility and accuracy make it an invaluable asset in optometric practices worldwide.

Pediatric Ocular Health and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Review.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects neurobehavioral, cognitive, and cardiovascular aspects, particularly in children, by obstructing the upper airways during sleep. While its impact in adult ocular health is recognized, there is ongoing debate about OSA's relevance in pediatrics. This review explores the relationship between OSA and ocular health in children, focusing on the effects and potential improvements through treatment. A systematic search found 287 articles through PubMeD/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect; 94.4% were excluded. After careful selection, six English articles were included, addressing the effects of OSA on children's eyes. Three studies examined choroidal alterations, three explored retinal and optic nerve changes, and two analyzed ocular changes following otorhinolaryngological intervention. The immediate correlation in children is inconclusive, but age may be a contributing factor. Pediatric OSA patients exhibit corneal anomalies and increased optic nerve thickness, possibly due to intermittent hypoxia. OSA influences retinal vascular density in children, with increased density after treatment and reduced choroidal thickness in cases of adenotonsillar hypertrophy. This review emphasized OSA's significant impact on children's ocular health, revealing alterations in the optic nerve, choroid, retina, and cornea. While the direct correlation with the optic nerve is not always evident, OSA raises intraocular pressure and induces structural changes. Treatment holds promise, highlighting the need for regular monitoring to promptly address childhood OSA.

Through the Smoke: An In-Depth Review on Cigarette Smoking and Its Impact on Ocular Health.

Smoking is a widespread and pervasive habit, impacting health across various care settings, including acute care, subacute care, home-based care, and long-term care. Smoking is a serious global public health concern that has been related to many chronic diseases. However, the effect of smoking on eye disorders has been less studied. Cigarette smoke contains a complex mixture of harmful constituents, including nicotine and toxic chemicals, which permeate the bloodstream, affecting ocular tissues. The oxidative stress and inflammation induced by smoking are central to its detrimental effects on ocular health. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss, exhibits a strong association with smoking. Research consistently demonstrates that smokers face a heightened risk of both early and advanced AMD. Cataracts, another prevalent ocular condition, develop earlier and progress more rapidly in smokers. The oxidative stress on the lens and reduced antioxidants among smokers contribute to the increased severity of cataracts. Moreover, the health of the eyes may be compromised by smoking-related chemicals that reduce blood flow and/or hasten thrombus formation in ocular capillaries thus increasing the chance of acquiring glaucoma, cataracts, AMD, and Graves' eye disease. Beyond individual health concerns, the societal implications of smoking on ocular health are substantial, including increased healthcare costs and diminished quality of life for affected individuals. Understanding the underlying mechanisms can provide insights into potential therapeutic interventions for preventing and managing smoking-related ocular damage. Given the global prevalence of smoking, raising awareness about the ocular risks associated with smoking is crucial for promoting eye health. The review underscores the urgent need for comprehensive anti-smoking initiatives and smoking cessation programs to alleviate the burden of ocular diseases associated with smoking.

Secondhand smoke exposure and ocular health: A systematic review.

The toxicology of secondhand smoke (SHS), along with the harm of its exposure to human health, has been generally acknowledged; however, specific evidence is lacking on the association between SHS exposure and ocular health. In this systematic review (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022247992), we included 55 original articles published by 12 May 2023, which dealt with SHS exposure and ocular disorders, such as eye irritation, conjunctivitis, dry eye diseases, uveitis, myopia, astigmatism, contact lens discomfort, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and thyroid eye disease that addressed the ocular neurovascular structures of the macular, retinal nerve fiber layer, choroid, and corneal biomechanical parameters. We found compelling correlational evidence for eye irritation, conjunctivitis, and dry eye symptoms-supporting that SHS exposure was positively associated with inflammatory and allergic changes in the eyes. Yet, evidence about the associations between SHS exposure and other ocular disorders, structures, and parameters is still limited or controversial. Given the limitations of existing literature, more investigations with high quality and rigorous design are warranted to elucidate the potentially harmful effects of SHS exposure on ocular health.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of contact lenses on the ocular surface.

Several lifestyle choices made by contact lens wearers can have adverse consequences on ocular health. These include being non-adherent to contact lens care, sleeping in lenses, ill-advised purchasing options, not seeing an eyecare professional for regular aftercare visits, wearing lenses when feeling unwell, wearing lenses too soon after various forms of ophthalmic surgery, and wearing lenses when engaged in risky behaviors (e.g., when using tobacco, alcohol or recreational drugs). Those with a pre-existing compromised ocular surface may find that contact lens wear exacerbates ocular disease morbidity. Conversely, contact lenses may have various therapeutic benefits. The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impinged upon the lifestyle of contact lens wearers, introducing challenges such as mask-associated dry eye, contact lens discomfort with increased use of digital devices, inadvertent exposure to hand sanitizers, and reduced use of lenses. Wearing contact lenses in challenging environments, such as in the presence of dust and noxious chemicals, or where there is the possibility of ocular trauma (e.g., sport or working with tools) can be problematic, although in some instances lenses can be protective. Contact lenses can be worn for sport, theatre, at high altitude, driving at night, in the military and in space, and special considerations are required when prescribing in such situations to ensure successful outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis, incorporated within the review, identified that the influence of lifestyle factors on soft contact lens dropout remains poorly understood, and is an area in need of further research. Overall, this report investigated lifestyle-related choices made by clinicians and contact lens wearers and discovered that when appropriate lifestyle choices are made, contact lens wear can enhance the quality of life of wearers.

Radiology blues: Comparing occupational blue-light exposure to recommended safety standards.

Background: The blue-light hazard is a well-documented entity addressing the detrimental health effects of high-energy visible light photons in the range of 305 nm - 450 nm. Radiologists spend long hours in front of multiple light-emitting diode (LED)-based diagnostic monitors emitting blue light, predisposing them to potentially higher blue-light dosages than other health professionals. Objectives: The authors aimed to quantify the blue light that radiology registrars are exposed to in daily viewing of diagnostic monitors and compared this with international occupational safety standards. Method: A limited cross-sectional observational study was conducted. Four radiology registrars at two academic hospitals in Bloemfontein from 01 October 2021 to 30 November 2021 participated. Diagnostic monitor viewing times on a standard workday were determined. Different image modalities obtained from 01 June 2019 to 30 November 2019 were assessed, and blue-light radiance was determined using a spectroscope and image analysis software. Blue-light radiance values were compared with international safety standards. Results: Radiology registrars spent on average 380 min in front of a diagnostic display unit daily. Blue-light radiance from diagnostic monitors was elevated in higher-intensity images such as chest radiographs and lower for darker images like MRI brain studies. The total blue-light radiance from diagnostic display units was more than 10 000 times below the recommended threshold value for blue-light exposure. Conclusion: Blue-light radiance from diagnostic displays measured well below the recommended values for occupational safety. Hence, blue-light exposure from diagnostic monitors does not significantly add to the occupational health burden of radiologists. Contribution: Despite spending long hours in front of diagnostic monitors, radiologists' exposure to effective blue-light radiance from monitors was far below hazardous values. This suggests that blue-light exposure from diagnostic monitors does not increase the occupational health burden of radiologists.

Blue Light Exposure: Ocular Hazards and Prevention-A Narrative Review.

INTRODUCTION: Exposure to blue light has seriously increased in our environment since the arrival of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and, in recent years, the proliferation of digital devices rich in blue light. This raises some questions about its potential deleterious effects on eye health. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an update on the ocular effects of blue light and to discuss the efficiency of methods of protection and prevention against potential blue light-induced ocular injury. METHODS: The search of relevant English articles was conducted in PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases until December 2022. RESULTS: Blue light exposure provokes photochemical reactions in most eye tissues, in particular the cornea, the lens, and the retina. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that certain exposures to blue light (depending on the wavelength or intensity) can cause temporary or permanent damage to some structures of the eye, especially the retina. However, currently, there is no evidence that screen use and LEDs in normal use are deleterious to the human retina. Regarding protection, there is currently no evidence of a beneficial effect of blue blocking lenses for the prevention of eye diseases, in particular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In humans, macular pigments (composed of lutein and zeaxanthin) represent a natural protection by filtering blue light, and can be increased through increased intake from foods or food supplements. These nutrients are associated with lower risk for AMD and cataract. Antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, or zinc might also contribute to the prevention of photochemical ocular damage by preventing oxidative stress. CONCLUSION: Currently, there is no evidence that LEDs in normal use at domestic intensity levels or in screen devices are retinotoxic to the human eye. However, the potential toxicity of long-term cumulative exposure and the dose-response effect are currently unknown.

Effect of wearing different types of face masks during dynamic and isometric resistance training on intraocular pressure.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of face masks has demonstrated to be an effective strategy to prevent transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Wearing face masks, mainly Filtering Face Piece 2 (FFP2) masks, during exercise practice has demonstrated to affect several physiological measures. BACKGROUND: This study was aimed at assessing the intraocular pressure (IOP) behaviour during the execution of the dynamic and isometric biceps-curl exercise with a surgical and FFP2 face mask. METHODS: Twenty two physically active young adults performed sets of 10 repetitions against the 10-RM (repetition maximum) load and 1-minute isometric effort against a load 15% lower than the 10-RM load with the FFP2 and surgical mask and without any mask. A total of six exercise sets (3 experimental conditions [FFP2, surgical and control] × 2 exercise modalities) were performed. A rebound tonometer was used to measure IOP before, during (10 measurements), and after (30-seconds of passive recovery) each training set. RESULTS: At rest, there were not statistically significant IOP differences (p = 0.222). During dynamic exercise, there was a progressive IOP rise (p < 0.001), and a higher IOP response with the FFP2 than without the mask (corrected p-value = 0.003). For the isometric exercise, there was a greater IOP response as a function of accumulated effort (p < 0.001), which was dependent of the face mask used (FFP2> surgical>control; corrected p-values< 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The FFP2 masks cause a heightened IOP response during the execution of dynamic and isometric biceps-curl exercise, suggesting that, when possible, glaucoma patients should limit the use of FFP2 masks during resistance training.

Multifunctional glycoprotein coatings improve the surface properties of highly oxygen permeable contact lenses.

To achieve and maintain good operability of medical devices while reducing putative side effects for the patient, a promising strategy is to tailor the surface properties of such devices as they critically dictate the tissue compatibility and the biofouling behavior. Indeed, those properties can be strongly improved by generating mucin coatings on such medical devices. However, using coatings on optical systems, e.g., contact lenses, comes with various challenges: here, the geometrical and optical characteristics of the lens may not be compromised by either the coating process or the coating itself. In this study, we show how mucin macromolecules can be attached onto the surfaces of rigid, gas permeable contact lenses while maintaining all critical lens parameters. We demonstrate that the generated coatings improve the surface wettability (contact angles are reduced from 105° to 40° and liquid film break-up times are increased from <1 s to 31 s) and prevent tribological damage to corneal tissue. Additionally, such coatings are highly transparent (transmission values above 98 % compared to an uncoated sample are reached) and efficiently reduce lipid deposition to the lens surface by 90 % but fully maintain the geometrical and mechanical properties of the lenses. Thus, such mucin coatings could also be highly beneficial for other optical systems that are used in direct contact with tissues or body fluids.

Unveiling the Spectrum of Ophthalmic Manifestations in Nutritional Deficiencies: A Comprehensive Review.

This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between nutrition and ocular health, focusing on the crucial roles of essential nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Zinc, and Folate (Vitamin B9) in maintaining eye well-being. Nutrient deficiencies have significant consequences, leading to various eye-related issues, from night blindness to age-related conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. It is imperative to address these deficiencies, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded diet with the necessary nutrients. When necessary, supplementation and regular eye examinations are vital components for effectively monitoring ocular health. Public health campaigns and educational initiatives also play a key role in raising awareness about the profound impact of nutrition on eye health. Future research should explore personalized nutrition plans, nutrigenomics, longitudinal studies, and targeted nutritional interventions. Such investigations will not only enhance our understanding of this crucial connection but also have the potential to reduce the global burden of eye diseases.

Effect of increased screen time on eyes during COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose: The objective of the study was to assess the effect of increased screen time on ocular health during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis. Materials and Method: An online pretested, self-reported questionnaire with relevant details was generated through Google form and sent to participants. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to investigate the associations between the qualitative variables. The associated risk factors of number and frequency of ocular health problems were analysed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Result: A total of 435 responses were considered where 48.5% (N = 211) were female participants and 51.5% (N = 224) were male. Average age of the participants was 35 years. 89% of the participants reported an increase in the screen time during the during the lockdown period. Younger age group reported to have greater screen time than the older participants (p = 0.001) and hence experienced more symptoms of digital eye strain (DES) (p = 0.003). The most common symptoms associated with digital eye strain in our study were eyestrain 52.8% (N = 230) and headache 31.3% (N = 136). In total, 81.37% (354/435) of participants had experienced at least one symptom related to digital screen usage. Conclusion: DES is non-vision-threatening but discomfort caused due to it can have implications on overall physical, mental, and social well-being. The study highlights the increase in digital screen time during the pandemic and the resultant eye strain. There is need of spreading awareness regarding the adverse effects of digital device use and the preventive measures to safeguard our ocular health.

Gender Difference in Ocular Diseases, Risk Factors and Management with Specific Reference to Role of Sex Steroid Hormones.

Our eyes are windows to the world and to our soul. The approach to them offers an incredible space for conducting research to learn more about gender differences in ocular health and disease. There is inadequate data about gender differences to accurately plan and implement strategies to address the gender disparities. In this article, we discuss several conditions with ocular manifestations, focusing on those that disproportionately affect women more, with a specific emphasis on the role of sex hormones and the management of the conditions. Articles in the past two and a half decades were selected for this mini-review from the MEDLINE/PubMed database. The search terms used were: "Age Related Macular Degeneration," "Blindness," "Cataract," "Diabetic Retinopathy," "Dry Eye," "Glaucoma," "Ocular Diseases." To restrict the articles found, we limited search results with the terms: "Estrogen," "Gender difference," "Hormone," "Menopause," "Sex Steroid Hormones."

Do Age and Sex Play a Role in the Intraocular Pressure Changes after Acrobatic Gymnastics?

To evaluate the effects of an acrobatic gymnastics (AG) training session on intraocular pressure (IOP), a familiarization session was employed to confirm the participant's suitability for the study. Forty-nine gymnasts (63.27% females, 18-40 years old) voluntarily agreed to participate. As age, sex, baseline IOP, and central corneal thickness (CCT) were considered as potential predictors of the IOP variations, in the second session measurements of the above parameters were taken before and after 90 min of AG. A mixed-factorial analysis of variance evaluated differences. Linear regression was conducted to potentially predict the IOP variation with the exercise. After the scheduled exercise, highly significant (p < 0.001, effect size: 0.73) reductions in IOP, but no significant changes in CCT (p = 0.229), were observed. IOP was significantly modified in males, older than 25 years, and subjects with baseline IOP > 14 mmHg (p ≤ 0.001, effect sizes: 0.57-1.02). In contrast, the IOP of females, younger participants, and subjects with baseline IOP ≤ 14 mmHg was not significantly modified (p = 0.114). With the regression analyses, we concluded that both sex and baseline IOP levels were significant predictors of the IOP fluctuation with AG. These findings could be of interest for gymnasts, coaches, ophthalmologists, and/or optometrists in the prevention and control of risk factors associated with glaucoma.