Resting intraocular pressure of steel factory workers is related to their physical fitness.

Intraocular pressure (IOP) has never been compared between hard working and sedentary subjects. The relationship between physical fitness and IOP is not clearly known. There are only two studies and their results are contradictory. The variability in their results may be due to several factors. Therefore, the present study was planned to investigate the relationship between working style, physical fitness and IOP after taking into account those factors that can affect IOP. One hundred fifty male volunteers of a steel factory were divided equally in two groups. The subjects of group 1 were sedentary worker, whereas group 2 subjects were actively engaged in heavy works requiring exertion. Physical fitness was evaluated by the measurement of maximum oxygen uptake with a Bechman O2 analyzer. IOP was measured with the Goldmann applanation tonometer. As compared to sedentary subjects, maximum oxygen uptake was significantly higher whereas IOP was significantly lower in those who did moderate or severe exertions. The maximum oxygen uptake difference between group 1 and 2 was found to be (mean +/- SD) 5.1 +/- 1.1 ml/kg/min (p < 0.001), whereas, IOP difference was 1.9 +/- 0.7 mmHg (p < 0.001). This study concludes that hard working is associated with physical fitness and physical fitness is associated with reduced resting IOP. It would seem reasonable at present not to discourage subjects who have ocular hypertension from exercise; perhaps, on the contrary, it should be encouraged to increase their physical fitness.