Evaluation of Risk Factors in Patients with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension

Objective: The purpose of our study was to compare the age, gender, intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), spherical equivalent values, smoking, family history of glaucoma, and additional systemic diseases in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and patients with ocular hypertension (OHT); and to evaluate the relationships of these factors with each other. Materials and Methods: 40 patients with POAG, 40 patients with OHT, and 40 individuals as a control group were included in the study. Age, gender, IOP, CCT, spherical equivalent values, family history of glaucoma, history of consanguineous marriage, smoking, and systemic diseases of each subject were recorded. Results: There was no significant difference in gender and average age between the groups. IOP values were higher in the POAG and OHT groups than in the control group. There was no significant difference in IOP values between POAG and OHT groups. CCT was higher in the OHT group than in the other groups. There was no significant correlation between IOP and CCT values. There was no significant difference in mean spherical equivalent values. The incidence of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and diabetes mellitus was similar in all groups. Family history of glaucoma is increased in the POAG and OHT group compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in the history of consanguineous marriage, alcohol usage, and smoking status among all groups. Conclusion: High IOP was the most important risk factor in POAG and OHT groups. A significant familial history of glaucoma in POAG and OHT groups suggests that genetic factors may be an important risk factor.