New Study Links Physical Activity to Slower Glaucoma Progression
A new study has revealed that higher levels of physical activity may significantly slow the progression of visual field loss in individuals with glaucoma. The findings suggest that lifestyle modifications could become an important complement to traditional glaucoma treatments.
In a study published in the Journal of Glaucoma, researchers sought to examine whether physical activity levels were associated with the rate of visual field deterioration in glaucoma patients. In the study, 131 eyes from 80 POAG patients were included over a median follow-up of 4.9 (IQR: 4.0–6.7) years. The median age of patients was 68.6 (IQR: 59.3–77.8) years and the median baseline visual field mean deviation was −3.5 (IQR: −8.3 to −1.3).
Using objective physical activity data collected via accelerometers, the research team monitored participants' daily movement—specifically minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity—over a set period. Participants were followed longitudinally, with their visual field loss measured using standard automated perimetry (SAP). The rate of visual field decline was then compared across activity levels.
Key Findings
Slower Vision Loss with Increased Activity: Individuals who engaged in higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity showed a statistically significant reduction in the rate of visual field loss compared to their less active counterparts.
Dose-Response Relationship: The data suggested a dose-response trend, where greater activity levels correlated with slower progression of visual impairment.
Independent of Traditional Risk Factors: These benefits remained significant even after adjusting for common glaucoma risk factors such as age, IOP, and baseline visual field status.
The study authors said that encouraging glaucoma patients to maintain or increase their physical activity could offer a low-risk strategy to preserve vision. However, they caution that while the findings are compelling, more research is needed to determine causality and to explore the biological mechanisms linking exercise to retinal and optic nerve health. Future studies may investigate whether specific types of activity—such as aerobic vs. resistance training—offer differing protective benefits.
Reference: Seo, Je Hyun MD, PhD*,†; Nishida, Takashi MD, PhD, et al. Impact of Physical Activity Levels on Visual Field Progression in Individuals With Glaucoma. J Glaucoma. 34(7):p 499-506, July 2025.