A groundbreaking study has revealed that older adults over the age of 55 with elevated levels of HDL cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol, may face an increased risk of developing glaucoma. This finding, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, has sparked debate among experts and was unexpected by many in the medical community. The research focused on older adults with type 2 diabetes, showcasing a specific demographic where these findings were observed.
The study's results challenged conventional expectations. Medical professionals, including Dr. Yu-Ming Ni, anticipated that higher levels of HDL cholesterol would correspond with lower instances of glaucoma, while higher levels of LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, would lead to increased risk. However, the study's outcome was contrary to these predictions, highlighting a surprising association between high HDL cholesterol and glaucoma in this particular group.
This research underscores the specificity of its findings, emphasizing that the results should not be generalized beyond the study's participants. The study was conducted after significant prior research on the topic, leading to the abandonment of existing guidelines in 2015. Donna Kritz-Silverstein, PhD, noted the historical context, stating:
“At the time, it was thought that dietary cholesterol (i.e. the cholesterol found in eggs) could raise levels of plasma cholesterol. This amount of dietary cholesterol that could be consumed per day was further reduced later on for those at high risk of heart disease. It was not until 2015 — and after a lot of research had been done — that these guidelines were abandoned,” – Donna Kritz-Silverstein, PhD
In addition to cholesterol-related findings, the study also reported vision problems among nine participants taking semaglutide and tirzepatide. These issues included potentially blinding conditions such as Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). Given the widespread use of these medications, it is crucial to monitor any adverse effects on vision or other bodily functions.
“Between 2-3% of the U.S. population received a prescription for one of these medications in 2023. Because so many people are using these medications, it’s critical to monitor any ill effects on the eye or other parts of the body.” – Unknown
The study's release prompted a podcast episode dedicated to discussing its implications, further illustrating its impact on both medical professionals and the public. As the participants were a very specific group—older adults with type 2 diabetes—the findings' applicability to broader populations remains limited.
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