Communicating the ocular and systemic complications of obesity to patients.

BACKGROUND: Obesity has become a growing worldwide epidemic that is associated with serious medical complications. Many clinicians and patients are aware of the systemic complications of obesity, but there are few providers and patients who are aware of the ocular manifestations of obesity. METHODS: A review of the current medical literature was performed. Ocular and systemic manifestations associated with obesity are described, and a methodology for educating the optometric patient is presented. RESULTS: There is significant morbidity and mortality associated with obesity, which is causing serious consequences to patients and an enormous economic strain on the health care system. Optometrists have a tremendous opportunity and obligation to educate their patients on the potential sight-threatening complications of obesity and encourage them to decrease their caloric intake and increase their physical activity to help alleviate this individual and collective burden. CONCLUSIONS: Optometrists have a duty to educate and counsel their overweight and obese patients on the devastating ocular complications that could manifest as a result of obesity.