Some good news for desk jockeys; a lack of exercise—for the most part—isn’t associated with most eye diseases. However, it can help ward of diabetic retinopathy, according to newly published research. Chinese researchers looked at the habits of 3,031 patients who were participants in the Beijing Eye Study.

The investigators adjusted for age, location, education, blood pressure, body mass index, depression and other health factors. The team then calculated the statistical associations of a lack of exercise with primary open-angle glaucoma, angle closure, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, central serous choroidopathy and cataract. None of the conditions other than diabetic reintopathy were statistically associated with a sedentary lifestyle. The investigators also noted a “marginally significant” association between higher physical activity and prevalence of age‐related macular degeneration.