Recent study results indicate that you might be wise to refer patients with glaucoma and high intraocular pressure (IOP) to their primary physicians for a thorough health checkup.

The Framingham Eye Cohort study examined the eyes of participants over a 3-year period and kept records of survival data for 5 years after the study was completed.

Of the 1,764 persons younger than 70 years, 1,421 had low IOP (20 mm Hg), 264 had medium IOP (20 to 24 mm Hg) and 79 had high IOP (25 mm Hg) or a history of glaucoma treatment. During follow-up, 29%, 30% and 47% died in each group, respectively. In age- and sex-adjusted hazard analysis, the death rate ratio for the group with medium IOP relative to that with low IOP was 1.04. The corresponding death rate ratio for the group with high IOP was 1.56. After adjustment for other risk factors, a positive relationship remained.

The researchers conclude that high IOP or glaucoma are markers for decreased life expectancy. They recommend that you pay special attention to the general health of these patients in your practice.