Intraocular Pressure And Spirituality: A Correlative Study.

Background: Spirituality has been shown to impact health in many positive ways, including decreasing high blood pressure and increased mental health. This study explores the correlation between intraocular pressure (lOP) and spirituality. While many aspects of health and spirituality have been studied, the link between lOP and spirituality has yet gone unexplored. Methods: A one page survey was distributed to primary care patients at the Michigan College of Optometry (MCO) clinic. Non-glaucoma patients between the ages of 18 and 75 years old were randomly selected for voluntary participation in this survey. Surveys were collected until 55 completed surveys had been returned. Results: A T-test revealed t = 1.40 with a standard deviation of2.67. The probability of achieving this result, assuming a null hypothesis is 0.167. While, this is not a statistically significant result, this study does demonstrate a potential inverse relationship between spirituality and lOP. Conclusion: Spirituality may have a beneficial effect on lOP, reducing lOP thereby contributing to increased ocular health. While this is suggested by the results of this study, further investigation must be done before a definitive statement to this effect is made. Patients should be educated on the positive effects of prayer and spirituality; it is also beneficial for physicians (including optometrists and ophthalmologists) to pray with their patients.