F. K. IDU

Diabetes mellitus has been increasingly linked with ocular complications, particularly elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), a key risk factor for glaucoma. Understanding the relationship between blood sugar level and Intraocular pressure is critical for early detection and prevention of vision-threatening conditions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels and intraocular pressure and assess the influence of age and gender on these parameters among adults in Benin City, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 adults aged 41–80 years with the mean age (61.5 years) attending St. Teresa Specialist and Laser Eye Center, Benin City. Fasting blood sugar was measured using a glucometer, and intraocular pressure was assessed using an iCare tonometer. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22, applying t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between fasting blood sugar and intraocular pressure (r = 0.658, p = 0.01). Males exhibited higher mean IOP (17.44 mmHg) than females (15.49 mmHg; p = 0.047), while older age groups (61–80 years) showed significantly higher FBS (126.84 mg/dl) and IOP (18.72 mmHg) values compared to younger participants (p < 0.05). It is concluded from this study that elevated fasting blood sugar is significantly associated with increased intraocular pressure, with age and gender acting as modifying factors. Routine IOP screening is recommended for individuals with elevated blood glucose, regardless of diabetic status.