Is myopia associated with a reduced or increased risk of diabetic retinopathy? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Diabetic retinopathy remains a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. Recent studies suggest that myopia, particularly due to axial elongation, may offer a protective effect against retinal microvascular damage.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between myopia and diabetic retinopathy, quantify the strength of this relationship, and explore potential protective mechanisms.

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and other databases was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Eight observational studies including 5564 individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were analyzed. Pooled odds ratios (OR) were computed using a random-effects model. Subgroup and heterogeneity analyses were also performed.

Moderate myopia was significantly associated with an 80 % lower risk of diabetic retinopathy (OR = 0.20, 95 % CI: 0.11-0.37, p < 0.00001). High myopia showed a 31.5 % reduced risk compared to moderate myopia (OR = 0.685, 95 % CI: 0.607-0.773). Hyperopia was associated with a nearly fivefold higher risk of vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (OR = 4.874, 95 % CI: 4.677-5.078). There was no significant heterogeneity (I² = 0 %) and minimal evidence of publication bias.

Moderate and high myopia appear to be protective against diabetic retinopathy, likely due to axial length-related anatomical changes. These findings could inform future diabetic eye disease risk models and personalized screening strategies.