Vision loss risk greater in men

Raised intracranial hypertension is more likely to result in vision loss in men than women.

New research published in this month's online issue of Neurology (October 15) has shown that idiopathic raised intracranial hypertension (better known but as the erroneously named benign intracranial hypertension as it is not due to a space occupying lesion) resulted in severe visual problems in twice as many men as women.

The condition is often first detected by optometrists as it may present as bilateral swollen optic discs. Lead researcher Dr Beau Bruce said: 'Our findings suggest that men with this condition should have more careful monitoring of their vision and be treated more aggressively when they do show evidence of sight loss.'