Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: A Global and Historical Perspective

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a vision-threatening condition characterized by the separation of the neurosensory retina from the retinal pigment epithelium due to retinal breaks, leading to subretinal fluid accumulation. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, risk factors, and historical evolution of RRD from a global perspective, highlighting trends, regional variations, and key advancements to inform clinical practice and future research.

A targeted literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Scopus to identify studies published from 1970 to 2025 on RRD epidemiology, risk factors, incidence rates and temporal trends. The inclusion criteria focused on population-based studies, meta-analyses, and reviews. The findings were synthesized narratively, with quantitative estimates reported where available from the included studies and meta-analyses.

The global annual incidence of RRD is estimated at 12.17 per 100,000 people, with significant regional variations: it is the highest in Europe (14.52 per 100,000) and lower in the Americas (8.95 per 100,000). The incidence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment has risen by 5.4 cases per 100,000 people per decade, with projections suggesting that it could double over the next 20 years. The key risk factors include myopia (3-39-fold increased risk depending on severity), age (peak in 60-70s), male sex, cataract surgery, and trauma.

The RRD incidence is rising globally, driven by aging populations and increasing myopia prevalence, with myopia as the strongest potentially modifiable risk factor. Historical advancements underscore the importance of early detection and surgical intervention. Future efforts should focus on applying preventive strategies in high-risk groups and addressing regional disparities in access to care.