Did you know? Air pollution is linked to a 70% higher risk of glaucoma
A review of 41 studies found the most polluted areas were linked to up to 70% higher odds of glaucoma. Here's what it means for haze season in Malaysia.
In this article
Haze season usually gets us worried about our lungs. Coughing, wheezing, itchy throats. But there's another organ exposed directly to dirty air every second our eyes are open: our eyes.
A large study presented in September 2026 found that people living in the most polluted areas had up to 70% higher odds of glaucoma compared with those in the cleanest areas.
What did the study find?
The study is a systematic review and meta-analysis combining 41 observational studies, covering data from millions of people in East Asia and the United Kingdom. It was presented by Dr Ahmed Alnabihi of King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, at the 44th ESCRS Congress (the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons).
Key findings:
- Glaucoma: the most polluted areas were linked to up to 70% higher odds of glaucoma. For each meaningful increase in exposure, risk rose by about 8%.
- Cataract: risk rose by about 4% for each meaningful increase in exposure.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): the evidence was less consistent.
- The strongest link was with PM2.5, the fine particles that are also a major component of haze.
Why would dirty air affect the eyes?
The surface of the eye, including the tear film, conjunctiva and cornea, is directly exposed to outdoor air. There's no filter like the one in your nose.
Researchers suggest fine PM2.5 particles can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Over the long term, this may damage the optic nerve (linked to glaucoma) or affect the lens of the eye (linked to cataracts).
Did you know? Cataracts are the leading cause of impaired vision worldwide, affecting around 94 million people. Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it can progress without clear early symptoms.
But don't panic just yet
This matters: the study shows an association, not proof that haze directly causes glaucoma. All the data comes from observational studies, so other factors may be involved.
The researchers themselves called for more studies, especially in highly polluted regions. Also, the study looked at long-term exposure, not a few days of haze.
The haze in Malaysia right now
The Ministry of Health (KKM) has activated the National Haze Operations Room since 4 September 2026. According to the Health Minister's statement on 15 October:
- Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) cases rose 167.21% to 7,065 cases in epidemiological week 36, up from 2,644 the week before.
- KKM monitors URTI, asthma and conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) at 78 sentinel facilities.
- Outdoor activities are recommended to be postponed when the API exceeds 100, and school closures are proposed when the API exceeds 200.
Protecting your eyes during the haze
Simple steps that can help:
- Spend less time outdoors when the API is high. Check the current API reading before heading out.
- Wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors to reduce dust getting into your eyes.
- Don't rub your eyes. Wash your hands first, and rinse your eyes with clean water if they feel gritty.
- Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) can help with dry eyes. Ask a pharmacist which type suits you.
- See a doctor if your eyes are red, painful, keep watering, or your vision is blurry.
This article is for general information, not medical advice. If you have eye problems, please consult a doctor or eye specialist.
Have your eyes been stinging during this haze?
This article is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to a health professional about your situation.
