Diabetic retinopathy in Oman: a hospital based study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of preventable blindness.
• Understanding DR prevalence and treatment gaps is crucial for diabetes management.
• Oman has a growing diabetic population requiring targeted eye care strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and determinants of diabetic retinopathy in registered diabetic patients in Oman.
• To assess the coverage of laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy.
• To inform public health interventions for diabetes-related eye disease.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 2249 randomly selected registered diabetic subjects in Oman.
• Utilized WHO-recommended definitions for diabetes and retinopathy.
• Data collected on patient demographics, diabetes history, ocular status, and treatment received.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was 14.39%.
• Risk factors included male gender, age (50-69 years), longer diabetes duration, HbA1c >9%, hypertension, nephropathy, and neuropathy.
• Only 20% of advised patients received laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusions:

• Diabetic retinopathy is prevalent in Oman's diabetic population, influenced by several risk factors.
• Significant gaps exist in accessing timely laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy.
• Urgent interventions are needed to improve screening and treatment coverage to prevent vision loss.