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Bidirectional Association Between Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Cardiovascular Disease: A Population-Based
Po-Yu Jay Chen1, Lei Wan2,3, Hei-Tung Yip4
1Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
Insights
This study found a significant link between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Taiwan. Patients with AMD had higher risks of heart attack and stroke, while CVD patients had increased AMD risk.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are leading causes of morbidity.
- Understanding the relationship between AMD and CVD is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies have suggested potential links, but large-scale cohort data are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bidirectional association between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- To examine the risks of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and ischemic stroke (IS) in AMD patients.
- To assess the risk of AMD in CVD patients within a large Taiwanese cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study using electronic health records from China Medical University Hospital, Taiwan (2003-2014).
- Inclusion of 9,333 AMD patients and 26,897 CVD patients with matched controls.
- Analysis using multivariable Cox regression to estimate risks and evaluate medication effects.
Main Results:
- AMD patients showed increased risks of AMI (aHR=1.45) and IS (aHR=1.78).
- CVD patients had a significantly higher risk of AMD (aHR=2.57).
- Aspirin use in CVD patients was linked to a lower AMD risk (HR=0.69); comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension exacerbated risks.
Conclusions:
- A significant bidirectional association exists between AMD and CVD in the Taiwanese population.
- Integrated screening and management strategies are recommended for patients with either condition.
- Further research into shared risk factors and preventative measures is warranted.
Purpose:
To investigate the bidirectional association between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD), including acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and ischemic stroke (IS), in a large Taiwanese cohort.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study using electronic health records from China Medical University Hospital (CMUH), Taiwan. From 2003 to 2014, we identified 9,333 AMD patients with 37,332 matched controls, and 26,897 CVD patients with 107,588 matched controls. All patients were followed through December 31, 2019. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate the risk of CVD in AMD patients and the risk of AMD in CVD patients. The effects of common cardiovascular medications were also analyzed.
Results:
AMD patients had an increased risk of AMI (adjusted HR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.25-1.69) and IS (adjusted HR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.52-2.09) compared to controls. CVD patients had a higher risk of AMD (adjusted HR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.30-5.09). Aspirin use among CVD patients was associated with a lower risk of AMD (HR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.50-0.94). Several comorbidities, including diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease, further increased risks in both directions.
Conclusion:
This population-based study demonstrates a significant bidirectional association between AMD and CVD in Taiwan. Integrated screening and management should be considered for patients with either condition.
