Risk Factors For Diabetic Retinopathy

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin deficiency or resistance, resulting in chronic hyperglycemia and microvascular as well as macrovascular complications. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) accounts for nearly 7% of newly registered blindness cases, and diabetics have a 15-fold higher risk of blindness compared to non-diabetics.

Aim: To evaluate the risk factors associated with diabetic retinopathy.

Methodology: A hospital-based study was conducted on 500 diabetic patients (1000 eyes) over a period of two years.

Results: Duration of diabetes, poor glycemic control, smoking, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension were significantly associated with the onset and progression of DR.

Conclusion: Early detection and modification of risk factors can improve visual outcomes and prevent blindness.