Drinking habit associated with faster progression of presbyopia in adults

Alcohol consumption and male sex were significant contributors to presbyopia progression, according to a study.

Conversely, smoking, HbA1c levels, and diabetic retinopathy were not linked to worsening near vision. Researchers said the findings may help inform public health education about lifestyle-related effects on ocular health.

The study evaluated 6,258 individuals aged 40 to 79 years, measuring near add power and assessing its relationship with lifestyle and ocular factors. Logistic regression analyses identified male sex, drinking habits, myopic spherical equivalent, astigmatism, and a thin ganglion cell complex as significant risk factors associated with near add power levels of 1.50 D and 2.50 D.

Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that men reached the +1.50 D endpoint significantly earlier than women. Among men, drinkers also reached the +2.50 D endpoint significantly earlier than non-drinkers.

Reference
Ayaki M, Hanyuda A, Negishi K. Drinking Habit Could Exacerbate the Progression of Presbyopia in Men. Clin Optom (Auckl). 2026;18:603879. doi: 10.2147/OPTO.S603879. PMID: 42146310; PMCID: PMC13179790.