Can “Good” Cholesterol Be Bad for Your Eyes? The Surprising Link Between HDL and Glaucoma
We’ve all heard that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, is beneficial for heart health. It helps remove bad cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. But what if your good cholesterol isn’t so good for your eyes?
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology has revealed a surprising link between high HDL levels and an increased risk of glaucoma—a leading cause of vision loss.
For those at risk of glaucoma or age-related eye diseases, understanding how cholesterol affects eye health is essential. Let’s break down the findings and what they mean for your vision.
Glaucoma and Cholesterol: What’s the Connection?
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.
This study found that elevated HDL cholesterol levels were linked to a 10% higher risk of developing glaucoma.
At first glance, this seems counterintuitive—how can something good for your heart be bad for your eyes? Researchers suggest that cholesterol plays a complex role in eye circulation, optic nerve health, and intraocular pressure regulation.
Key Findings from the Study
This observational study analyzed cholesterol levels and glaucoma risk in adults over 55. Here’s what they found: