Prevalence and Health Care Disparities of Retinal Conditions: A Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic macular edema (DME), and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) are leading causes of vision loss and blindness.
• Understanding the current prevalence of these conditions is crucial for public health planning and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update age-standardized prevalence estimates for AMD, DR, DME, and RVO in the US for 2022.
• To analyze prevalence by gender, race and ethnicity, and US state or county.

Main Methods:

• Bayesian meta-regression analysis was used, incorporating data from NHANES, Medicare claims, and commercial insurance claims.
• Prevalence estimates were age-standardized using the 2010 US Census age pyramid.
• Specific age groups and definitions were used for each condition (e.g., AMD for ages 40+, DR/DME as proportion of diabetic population, RVO for ages 18+).

Main Results:

• In 2022, estimated prevalence per 100,000 people was 5677 for AMD, 2710 for DR, 317 for DME, and 214 for RVO.
• Prevalence was higher in males than females for all conditions.
• Significant racial and ethnic disparities were observed, with Black and Hispanic individuals showing higher prevalence for DR and DME compared to White individuals.

Conclusions:

• The US prevalence of these retinal conditions is substantial, representing a significant healthcare burden.
• Updated estimates highlight critical disparities in prevalence across sex, race/ethnicity, and geographic regions.
• Findings can inform resource allocation and strategies to improve treatment access and outcomes for underserved populations.