Population Prevalence, Pattern and Associated Factors for Retinal Diseases at High Altitude in Nepal

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Altitude Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• High-altitude environments pose risks to retinal health due to hypoxia.
• Retinal disorders are a significant concern for populations residing above 2500 meters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and patterns of retinal diseases in high-altitude populations in Nepal.
• To identify factors associated with retinal disorders at high altitudes.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study in three Nepalese high-altitude districts (elevation >2500m).
• Included 338 participants aged 40+ years, assessing visual acuity, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and performing ocular evaluations.
• Data collected on medical history, including diabetes and hypertension.

Main Results:

• 52.5% of participants had retinal diseases, most commonly hypertensive retinopathy (32.2%), high-altitude retinopathy (10.4%), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (8.1%).
• Significant associations were found between retinal diseases and increasing age and hypertension.
• Average blood oxygen saturation was 87.2%, with 58% having systemic hypertension and 11% diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions:

• Over half of the high-altitude population studied exhibited retinal diseases.
• Hypertension and age are significant risk factors for retinal conditions in this population.
• Recommendations include improving access to eye care, managing hypertension, and patient education for high-altitude dwellers.