The Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index is Linked to Cataracts: Insights from NHANES 2005-2008

Abstract

Objective To investigate the association between the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) and cataract occurrence using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2008 data. Methods In this population-based cross-sectional study, data from 9,665 NHANES participants were analyzed. The study included adults with complete data on SII, cataract status, and relevant covariates. Logistic regression models adjusted for demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were used to evaluate the association between SII levels and the risk of cataracts. Results The results reveal a notable link between higher SII levels and a heightened risk of cataracts. Individuals in the top SII quartile exhibited a higher incidence of cataracts compared to those in the bottom quartile, a trend that remained consistent after adjustments in various models. Quantile regression analyses further supported the connection between increased SII levels and the likelihood of cataracts. Conclusion Our analysis establishes a linear association between raised SII levels and an elevated risk of cataracts, underscoring systemic inflammation as a crucial element in cataract formation. These findings propose that SII could be an effective biomarker for cataract risk assessment and underline the significance of managing systemic inflammation to prevent cataracts.