Ocular health in smoking addiction: A narrative review of disease patterns and traditional medicine-based de-addiction strategies

ABSTRACT:

Smoking adversely affects ocular health by accelerating various pathological conditions. Both active and passive smoke exposure contributes to multiple eye pathologies. This review focuses on the impact of smoking on ocular health and evaluates integrated approaches to smoking cessation, combining modern understanding with Ayurvedic interventions. A literature search was conducted across PubMed (2014–2024). A two-component search strategy integrated smoking-related and ophthalmic terms, yielding 46 eligible studies for the analysis. The review identified significant correlations between smoking and various ocular conditions. Notable findings include gender-specific cataract risks, accelerated Age-related Macular Degeneration progression with genetic interactions, mixed evidence for glaucoma association, and corneal endothelial cell changes. Studies revealed paradoxical effects in dry eye syndrome and increased surgical burden in thyroid eye disease patients. Traditional Ayurvedic de-addiction protocols demonstrated potential through a three-phase approach: withdrawal management, toxin elimination, and rejuvenation. The integration of Ayurvedic approaches with modern smoking cessation strategies offers a comprehensive framework for addressing both addiction and ocular health concerns. This review emphasizes the importance of combining traditional wisdom with contemporary healthcare approaches, particularly in developing nations where smoking-related ocular diseases present a growing burden.