Higher STOP-BANG Scores Linked to Increased Intraocular Pressure among elderly: Study

• Those having STOP-BANG scores from 3 to 8 had a higher odds ratio of increased IOP, by 1.27 times compared with those scoring between 0 and 2 (95% CI: 1.12-1.43).

• Among the STOP-BANG factors, loud snoring, witnessed apnea, high blood pressure, and large neck circumference were associated with a 24% to 40% increased risk of IOP elevation compared with patients without these factors.

• All four together were associated with an increase of more than a twofold of the relative risk of having high IOP compared to those with no risk factors at all (OR 2.09; 95% CI: 1.26-3.46).

In conclusion, this study strongly links high STOP-BANG scores to increased IOP in people aged 40 and older. Individual OSA risk factors such as loud snoring, observed breathing interruptions, hypertension, and wide neck circumference were significantly associated with increased IOP both as single and in combination risk factors. The findings call for the control of symptoms of OSA to lower the risk of increased intraocular pressure and its sequelae on the eye.

Reference:

Kim, J. L., & Lee, K. (2024). Association between risk of obstructive sleep apnea and intraocular pressure based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey VIII. Journal of Glaucoma. https://doi.org/10.1097/IJG.0000000000002512