Idiopathic intracranial hypertension on rise with obesity
The incidence of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) is increasing rapidly, especially in the United States, due to the obesity epidemic, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Neuro-Ophthalmology. The research team analyzed data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and found that the prevalence of IIH has increased by 68% from 2006 to 2016. The prevalence of IIH is higher among women, and the study indicates that the incidence is most common in women aged 20-44 years old, with a higher prevalence in women who are obese.
IIH is a condition where pressure within the skull increases, leading to swelling of the optic nerve and often causing severe headaches, vision loss, and even blindness. While the exact cause of IIH is unknown, obesity is known to be a major risk factor. The study’s findings suggest that the obesity epidemic is driving the rise in IIH cases, and it is likely that the number of cases will continue to increase as the obesity epidemic persists. The study highlights the importance of addressing obesity as a public health concern to reduce the incidence of IIH and other obesity-related health conditions.