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Published on: January 25, 2019
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Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Disproportionately Impacts Distressed Communities Near a Northeastern Academic
Akua A Frimpong1, Thomas L Chang2, June-Marie Weiss3
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont.
Ophthalmology Science
|September 2, 2025
Summary
Social determinants of health (SDoH) are linked to diabetic retinopathy progression. Individuals in disadvantaged communities showed worse outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Health Equity
Background:
- Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss.
- Social determinants of health (SDoH) significantly impact health outcomes.
- Understanding SDoH associations with DR progression is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between social determinants of health (SDoH) and the progression of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study analyzing electronic medical records.
- Utilized Distressed Communities Index (DCI) scores based on zip codes.
- Employed logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models to assess associations.
Main Results:
- 10% of participants progressed from nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) to PDR over 7 years.
- Progression to PDR was associated with significantly worse DCI scores.
- Unadjusted analysis showed a significant link between DCI and PDR progression (P=0.037).
Conclusions:
- Individuals with PDR progression were more likely to reside in disadvantaged areas.
- Socioeconomic data and geographic mapping can identify high-risk populations.
- Early screening and resource allocation for at-risk individuals are recommended.
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