This study delved into potential associations between allergic diseases (asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis) and the onset of primary open-angle glaucoma. Leveraging data from the Korean National Health Information Database (KNHID), encompassing extensive medical claims data and National Health Screening Program information, we scrutinized baseline characteristics, calculated incidence rates, and assessed the risk of glaucoma development among subjects with and without allergic diseases. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was employed to determine glaucoma risk in individuals with allergic diseases, with adjustments for confounding variables. A total of 171,129 subjects aged 20–39, with or without allergic diseases, who underwent health examinations between 2009 and 2015, were included. Subjects with allergic diseases exhibited a heightened incidence of glaucoma compared to controls. Adjusted hazard ratios for glaucoma onset were 1.49 and 1.39 in subjects with at least one allergic disease before and after adjusting for confounders, respectively. Among allergic diseases, atopic dermatitis posed the highest risk for glaucoma development (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.73), followed by allergic rhinitis (aHR 1.38) and asthma (aHR 1.22). Subgroup analyses consistently supported these associations across various demographic and clinical strata.
Introduction:
Allergic diseases, characterized by chronic inflammation triggered by allergen exposure, have witnessed a surge in prevalence globally. Chronic systemic inflammation, a hallmark of allergic diseases, has been implicated in various health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases. Glaucoma, the foremost cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, shares pathophysiological features with neurodegenerative diseases. However, limited research has explored the potential link between allergic diseases and glaucoma risk. This study aimed to fill this gap by examining associations between asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and primary open-angle glaucoma risk in a large, Nationwide cohort.
Methodology:
Utilizing the KNHID, encompassing demographic, medical claims, and National Health Screening Program data, we conducted a population-based cohort study. Subjects aged 20–39 who underwent health examinations between 2009 and 2015 were included. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was employed to calculate glaucoma risk in subjects with allergic diseases, adjusting for confounding factors. Subgroup analyses were performed to assess consistency across various strata.
Results:
Analysis of 171,129 subjects revealed a heightened incidence of glaucoma among those with allergic diseases. Adjusted hazard ratios for glaucoma onset were elevated in subjects with at least one allergic disease, with atopic dermatitis conferring the highest risk (aHR 1.73), followed by allergic rhinitis (aHR 1.38) and asthma (aHR 1.22). Subgroup analyses reaffirmed these associations across diverse demographic and clinical categories.
Conclusion:
This study underscores a potential association between allergic diseases and increased risk of primary open-angle glaucoma in young adults. Notably, atopic dermatitis emerged as a significant risk factor, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention strategies in this population. Further research is warranted to elucidate underlying mechanisms and inform preventive measures and treatment protocols.
