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Retinal arteriolar emboli and long-term mortality: pooled data analysis from two older populations
Jie Jin Wang1, Sudha Cugati, Michael D Knudtson
1University of Sydney Department of Ophthalmology, Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Hospital, the Westmead Millennium Institute, NSW, Australia. jiejin_wang@wmi.usyd.edu.au
Stroke
|June 3, 2006
Summary
Retinal emboli in older adults are linked to a higher risk of death, particularly from stroke. This association persists even when considering other health factors, highlighting a potential indicator for increased mortality risk.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Retinal arteriolar emboli are visible signs of vascular disease.
- Assessing their link to mortality can inform preventative health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between retinal arteriolar emboli and mortality in older populations.
- To determine if this association is independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Pooled data from two large, population-based cohort studies (Beaver Dam Eye Study and Blue Mountains Eye Study).
- Retinal photographs were analyzed for emboli; mortality data collected over 10-12 years.
- Cox regression models adjusted for multiple demographic and clinical variables.
Main Results:
- 111 out of 8584 participants had retinal emboli.
- Participants with emboli had higher cumulative mortality rates (all-cause: 56% vs. 30%; stroke-related: 12% vs. 4.0%).
- Retinal emboli independently predicted increased all-cause (HR 1.3) and stroke-related mortality (HR 2.0).
Conclusions:
- Retinal emboli are associated with a modest increase in all-cause and stroke-related mortality in older adults.
- This association is independent of common cardiovascular risk factors.
- Retinal emboli may serve as a prognostic indicator for mortality.
