EFFECT OF DIABETES ON RETINAL HEALTH AND VISION LOSS

Abstract

Objective: The primary objective of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the impact of diabetes on retinal health, focusing on its correlation with vision loss. The study aimed to identify key biomarkers and risk factors associated with diabetic retinopathy in a population of diabetic patients.

Method: The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Pakistan and included a sample of 300 diabetic patients. Participants underwent comprehensive eye examinations, including retinal imaging and visual acuity assessments. Blood samples were analyzed to identify biomarkers associated with retinal damage and diabetic retinopathy. The relationship between diabetes duration, glycemic control, and the presence of retinopathy was also analyzed.

Result: The results indicated a significant association between prolonged diabetes duration, poor glycemic control, and the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy. Biomarkers such as elevated levels of HbA1c and inflammatory cytokines were found to be strong predictors of retinal damage. Approximately 40% of the participants showed varying degrees of diabetic retinopathy, with a clear correlation to vision loss.

Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of early screening and continuous monitoring of diabetic patients to prevent vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy. The findings emphasize the need for improved management of diabetes, focusing on better glycemic control and the identification of potential biomarkers for early detection of retinal complications.