MAL À VISTA: CONSEQUÊNCIAS ASSOCIADAS AO USO DO TABACO PARA A SAÚDE DOS OLHOS

Introduction: Smoking is widely recognized as a risk factor for several eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome. Toxic substances present in cigarettes, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide, directly affect ocular tissues, resulting in oxidative and ischemic damage. This study reviews the literature on the effects of smoking on ocular health, highlighting the main mechanisms involved and the implications for public health. Methodology: A descriptive and analytical literature review was carried out. Scientific articles published between 2000 and 2024 in the PubMed, SciELO, and BVS databases were included. The keywords used were "smoking", "eye health", "cataract", "AMD", "glaucoma", and "dry eye syndrome". Studies that addressed the impact of active and passive smoking on ocular health were selected. Furthermore, clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were considered. Discussion and Results: The reviewed studies indicate that smoking significantly increases the risk of eye diseases. Smokers are two to four times more likely to develop AMD compared to non-smokers, in addition to a threefold increased risk of cataracts. Smoking also worsens glaucoma, contributing to progressive vision loss due to increased intraocular pressure. Dry eye syndrome has been identified as one of the most common conditions associated with smoking, with reduced tear quality and quantity. Secondhand smoke has also been shown to be harmful, especially in children, increasing the risk of diseases such as AMD and cataracts. Conclusion: Smoking represents an important and modifiable risk factor for the development of several eye diseases. Smoking cessation can significantly reduce the risk of these conditions and their complications. Awareness campaigns should include information on the impacts of smoking on eye health, both for active smokers and for the population exposed to secondhand smoke. Preventive measures, such as promoting eye health and encouraging smoking cessation, are essential for protecting vision.