Risk factors for diabetic retinopathy: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults.
• Identifying risk factors for DR is crucial for early intervention and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the risk factors associated with the development of diabetic retinopathy.
• To analyze the relationship between diabetes duration, glycemic control, comorbidities, and DR.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 240 participants (80 cases, 160 controls).
• Data collected via medical chart review, including demographics, metabolic control, and comorbidities.
• Statistical analysis employed Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Poor glycemic control significantly increased the likelihood of DR (OR 3.83).
• Longer diabetes duration showed a strong association with DR, particularly after 11 years (OR 7.52 for 11-15 years, OR 9.01 for >15 years).
• Diabetic nephropathy was identified as a significant comorbidity associated with DR (OR 3.32).

Conclusions:

• Diabetic patients with poor glycemic control and diabetic nephropathy face an elevated risk of DR.
• Diabetes duration exceeding 10 years is a critical factor in DR development.