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Fundus Photography as a Convenient Tool to Study Microvascular Responses to Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Epidemiological Studies
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Factors Associated With Incidental Retinal Emboli in the U.S. Adult Population.
Sean Teebagy1, Benjamin G Jastrzembski2, Isdin Oke3
1From the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (S.T.), University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|August 15, 2023
Summary
Incidental retinal emboli prevalence rises with age in U.S. adults. Underweight BMI, smoking, low income, and hypertension are associated factors, suggesting potential cardiovascular risk indicators.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Public Health Research
- Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology
- Retinal Vascular Health
Background:
- Retinal emboli are indicators of potential systemic vascular disease.
- Understanding the prevalence and risk factors for incidental retinal emboli is crucial for cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Nationally representative data can provide insights into the U.S. adult population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of incidental retinal emboli in a U.S. adult population.
- To identify sociodemographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors associated with retinal emboli.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing data from the 2005-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
- Included 5,764 adults aged 40 years and older.
- Retinal emboli identified via fundus photography; multivariable logistic regression analyzed associations with various factors.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of incidental retinal emboli was 0.7% (39/5764).
- Prevalence increased significantly with age, from 0.1% (40-49 years) to 1.4% (≥70 years).
- Associated factors included underweight BMI, current smoking, low household income, and hypertension.
Conclusions:
- Incidental retinal emboli prevalence in U.S. adults increases with age but shows no difference by sex or race/ethnicity.
- Underweight BMI, smoking, low income, and hypertension are linked to retinal emboli.
- Further research into socioeconomic and nutritional factors may help identify individuals at cardiovascular risk.
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