Diabetic retinopathy: Looking forward to 2030

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Diabetology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness and a significant global health concern.
• Advances in optical coherence tomography and anti-VEGF treatments have revolutionized DR care.
• The global burden of DR is increasing and shifting towards middle- and low-income countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline key trends and predict future developments in diabetic retinopathy management up to 2030.
• To highlight emerging diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• To discuss the evolving understanding of DR pathophysiology.

Main Methods:

• Review of current advancements in DR diagnostics and treatment.
• Analysis of epidemiological projections for DR.
• Exploration of novel imaging modalities and artificial intelligence applications.
• Discussion of emerging pharmacologic agents and gene therapy.

Main Results:

• DR burden is increasing globally, with a shift towards lower-income regions.
• Greater emphasis on retinal neural dysfunction and non-vascular aspects of DR.
• New imaging techniques (widefield, OCTA) and AI are enhancing DR management.
• Novel therapies, including non-VEGF agents and gene therapy, are under development.
• The DR classification system requires updates to reflect new knowledge.

Conclusions:

• The future of DR management will be shaped by technological innovation, a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms, and evolving global health dynamics.
• Artificial intelligence and advanced imaging will play crucial roles in screening, diagnosis, and prognosis.
• Novel therapeutic approaches promise to further improve outcomes for patients with diabetic retinopathy.