A new study suggests that alcohol consumption may speed up the progression of presbyopia, particularly in men. Researchers say the findings add to growing evidence that lifestyle habits can influence eye health as people age.

The study, published in Clinical Optometry, examined how drinking and smoking habits relate to presbyopia severity.¹ 

In the study, the near add power of 6,258 people aged 40 to 79 years was measured, and the association between lifestyle factors and near add power was analyzed. 

Researchers found that men who consumed alcohol showed signs of more advanced presbyopia compared with nondrinkers, even after accounting for age and other contributing factors. Logistic regression analyses showed that that male sex, drinking habit, myopic spherical equivalent, astigmatic errors, and a thin ganglion cell complex were common significant risk factors associated with near add power levels of 1.50 D and 2.50 D. Smoking status, HbA1c levels, and the presence of diabetic retinopathy were not significant factors. 

The authors noted that modern lifestyles may be amplifying the impact of near-vision problems. In today’s increasingly digital society, people spend much of their day focused on smartphones, tablets, and computers, placing additional strain on aging eyes.

While aging remains the primary cause, researchers say lifestyle-related factors may also play a role. Previous studies have linked smoking, diabetes, and poor metabolic health to worsening eye function, and the new research adds alcohol use as another possible contributor.

The researchers emphasized that the findings do not prove alcohol directly causes presbyopia. However, they said the results could help healthcare professionals educate patients about the broader effects of alcohol on long-term eye health.

Reference

1. Kaido M, Kawashima M, Toda I, Tsubota K. Drinking habit could exacerbate the progression of presbyopia in men. Clin Optom (Auckl). 2025;17:97-104. doi:10.2147/OPTO.S115043