CLINICAL PROFILE OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AMONG TYPE II DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Main Article Content
Keywords
Diabetic retinopathy, Type II diabetes mellitus, tertiary care, glycemic control, risk factors
Abstract
Introduction: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) represents a major microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of preventable blindness globally. Understanding the clinical profile of DR in tertiary care settings is crucial for developing effective management strategies, particularly in resource-limited healthcare systems.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Vyas Medical College and Hospital, Jodhpur, over six months (March-August 2025). Using systematic random sampling, 350 Type II diabetes mellitus patients aged ≥18 years were enrolled. Comprehensive ophthalmologic examination including dilated fundoscopy and digital fundus photography was performed. DR grading followed International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy severity scale. Data collection included demographic information, diabetes history, clinical parameters, and laboratory investigations. Statistical analysis employed chi-square tests, t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression.
Results: Overall DR prevalence was 31.1% (95% CI: 26.3-36.3%). Severity distribution included mild NPDR (16.0%), moderate NPDR (8.3%), severe NPDR (3.4%), and PDR (3.4%). Vision-threatening DR affected 6.9% of patients. Diabetes duration >15 years showed 7.42-fold increased risk (95% CI: 3.45-15.95), while poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥9%) demonstrated 4.23-fold increased risk (95% CI: 2.27-7.87). Hypertension was associated with 1.74-fold increased risk (95% CI: 1.09-2.78). Progressive visual impairment correlated significantly with increasing DR severity.
Conclusion: The study reveals significant DR burden in tertiary care settings with strong associations between modifiable risk factors and disease development. Duration of diabetes, glycemic control, and hypertension emerged as key determinants requiring targeted interventions for effective DR prevention and management.
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Dr RAHUL GOYAL
Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology vyas medical college and hospital, Jodhpur, Rajasthan