Correlation between diabetic retinopathy, type-2 diabetes mellitus, serum lipid profile, and BMI: A single center study

Abstract

Background: Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant global health challenge, impacting millions worldwide, with 422 million individuals affected. The majority reside in low and middle-income nations, contributing to 1.5 million annual fatalities. Projected data indicates a rise to 783.2 million cases by 2045. South Asians, including Bangladeshis, exhibit higher diabetes prevalence, possibly linked to visceral adiposity. Aim of the study: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between blood lipid profiles, BMIs, and the severity of diabetic retinopathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes across different grades. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted at the Department of Cardiology, District Hospital, Narail, Bangladesh, spanned one year from January 2023 December 2023 with 32 participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Informed consent was obtained, and eligible patients meeting inclusion criteria (treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin) were recruited. Exclusion criteria included malignancies, immunologic disorders, corticosteroid use, and pregnancy. Result: This study involved 32 patients, predominantly aged 51-60 (31.25%), with the female majority (53%). Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) severity distribution included 34.375% moderate NPDR, 31.25% mild NPDR, and 18.75% severe NPDR. No significant correlation with DR severity was found when examining total cholesterol (TCL) and Triglyceride (TG) levels. However, lipoprotein levels (LDL and HDL) showed a notable association (p-value 0.014). Mean BMI values across DR severity groups ranged from 21.51 to 22.29, with a potential statistical significance (p-value 0.0562). The study provides insights into the demographic and biochemical factors associated with DR severity, emphasizing potential links with lipoprotein levels and BMI. Conclusion: The findings highlight the intricate interplay of metabolic factors in diabetic ocular complications. The study recommends regular lipid profile monitoring for diabetic patients, emphasizing dyslipidemia interventions to prevent DR. Additionally, recognizing lower BMI's potential impact on DR emphasizes the need for tailored interventions based on individual metabolic profiles. Further research in larger, diverse populations is suggested for comprehensive insights into these associations.