DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AND THE ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS IN RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

Background: Diabetic Retinopathy, a potentially sight-threatening complication of diabetes, is a growing concern among Type 2 diabetic patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and severity of retinopathy, as well as its associated risk factors, among individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study. It allows researchers to collect more data on exposure and outcome. This study was conducted at primary health care centers in Riyadh city, King Abdul-Aziz Medical City (KAMC). Data collection tool was designed to achieve study objectives. It consisted of demographic data, clinical characteristics, and information about diabetic retinopathy.

Results: The study included 363 participants. More than half of them were females (n= 203, 55.9%) and the rest were males (n= 160, 44.1%). The mean age among study participants was 58.5 + 10.6 years with median age of 59 years. Majority of participants were non-smokers (n= 293, 80.7%) while 19.2% were smokers (n= 70). Third of study participants were overweight (n= 124, 34.2%) and another third were obese (n= 119, 32.8%). All study participants were diabetic with least duration of 1 year. About two thirds of participants have hypertension (n= 238, 65.6%). Two thirds of participants had uncontrolled glycemic state (n= 245, 67.5%) while the rest 118 participants (32.5%) had their diabetic status controlled. About two thirds of study participants had no retinopathy (n= 240, 66.1%). On the other hand, 45 cases had mild retinopathy (12.4%), 51 participants had moderate retinopathy (14%) and 27 participants had severe retinopathy (7.4%).

Conclusion: All participants in the investigation had diabetes. The majority utilized antihypertensive medication for hypertension. Two-thirds of those tested for glycemic control had uncontrolled diabetes. The laboratory results revealed albuminuria, elevated LDL cholesterol, and a diminished GFR. Some participants in the study developed mild, moderate, or severe retinopathy, while the majority did not. Retinopathy was more pronounced in the elderly. Smoking affected retinopathy less than gender. Hypertension increased the risk of retinopathy. Diabetes management and glomerular filtration rate were strong predictors of retinopathy. This study illustrates the intricate relationships between retinopathy and risk factors. Age, hypertension, glycemic management, and glomerular filtration rate affect diabetic retinopathy, according to the findings