Abstract
Objective
Given the increasing prevalence of myopia among the youth worldwide and the complex, unclear pathogenic mechanisms, this study delves into the potential connection between 100% fruit juice consumption and the risk of myopia. It aims to provide crucial scientific evidence for effective myopia prevention strategies, thus safeguarding visual health in this demographic.
Methods
This cross-sectional observational study is based on data from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in the United States. We included 906 adolescents and young adults, aged 12 to 25, who completed a non-cycloplegic vision examination. Participants were categorized into three groups based on their 100% fruit juice consumption: "never," "moderate," and "high" consumption groups. Using multivariable logistic regression models and adjusting for potential confounders such as age, gender, height, birthplace, family income, education level, race, and body mass index (BMI), we analyzed the association between 100% fruit juice consumption and the risk of myopia.
Results
Adjusted multivariate analysis revealed that both moderate and high consumption of 100% fruit juice were significantly associated with an increased risk of myopia (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis indicated that this association was particularly significant among males and the 12–17 age group (P < 0.05). Additionally, interaction analysis suggested that birthplace, BMI, and race might be important moderators in the relationship between 100% fruit juice consumption and myopia risk (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
This study demonstrates a significant association between 100% fruit juice consumption and an increased risk of myopia in adolescents and young adults, with this link being more pronounced in specific populations such as males and younger age groups. These findings provide essential evidence for developing myopia prevention strategies, highlighting the impact of dietary factors on visual health and the necessity of targeted interventions for high-risk groups. The results underscore the importance of incorporating dietary guidance into comprehensive myopia prevention strategies.