Author:
Ren Shengwei,Tu Runqi,Xu Liyan,Gu Yuwei,Fan Qi,Wang Qing,Zhu Meng,Yin Shanshan,Pang Chenjiu,Zhao Dongqing,Yang Kaili
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Although body mass index (BMI) and eye rubbing are linked to an increased risk of keratoconus (KC), the interactive effect of eye rubbing and BMI on KC is largely unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the independent and interactive effects of BMI and eye rubbing on KC and to further explore the role of environmental factors on the occurrence of KC.
Methods
A total of 621 individuals (291 KC patients and 330 control individuals) were enrolled in this hospital‑based study on KC patients in Central China after individuals missing BMI data were excluded. BMI was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. Data on eye rubbing was recorded through face-to-face interviews. Generalized linear regression models were used to analyze associations among BMI, eye rubbing and KC. Interaction plots were used to describe the interactive effects of BMI and eye rubbing on KC.
Results
The β and 95% confidence interval (CI) were 0.923 (0.112, 1.733) (p = 0.026) and 3.356 (1.953, 4.759) (p < 0.001), respectively, for the effect of each 10 kg/m2 increase in BMI and each 1 min increase in eye rubbing on KC. The interaction of BMI and eye rubbing were positively correlated with KC (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
These findings suggested that a high BMI aggravated the negative effect of eye rubbing on KC, implying that individuals with a high BMI may be more susceptible to exposure to eye rubbing, which is related to an increased risk of KC.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Henan Young Health Science and Technology Innovation Outstanding Program
Special Program for Basic Research of Henan Eye Hospital
Henan Natural Science Foundation
Henan Provincial Medical Science Building Key Program
Henan Provincial Science and Technology Research Project
Youth Special Program for Basic Research of Henan Eye Hospital
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health