Risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with normoalbuminuria: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), often occurring in the absence of overt renal complications. This study was undertaken to identify predictors of DR in T2DM patients with normoalbuminuria.Materials and Methods: A total of 150 patients with Type 2 diabetes were selected from the Department of Ophthalmology, S.S. Institute of Medical Sciences, over a period from March 2020 to February 2021. Inclusion criteria included patients with fasting plasma glucose ?126 mg/dl or 2-hour postprandial glucose >200 mg/dl, and normoalbuminuria. Detailed clinical examinations, hemoglobin estimation, blood pressure measurement, and fundus examination were performed.Results: Among the 150 patients, 78 (52%) had diabetic retinopathy. Significant predictors of DR included anemia (Hb < 8 gms) (38.6%), systemic hypertension (50%) and diabetes duration > 5 years (45.2%). Conclusion: The study concluded that anemia, hypertension, and prolonged diabetes duration were significant risk factors for the development of diabetic retinopathy in T2DM patients, even in the absence of renal dysfunction. Regular screening for these factors is essential for early identification and management of at-risk individuals.