Discover the latest research on diabetic retinopathy in the US. Learn about its prevalence, implications, and essential preventive measures for preserving vision.
Highlights:
Diabetic retinopathy is a common and potentially vision-threatening complication of diabetes. Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other institutions conducted a study in 2021 to estimate the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy among US residents with diabetes (1✔ ✔Trusted Source- 26.4% of US residents with diabetes had diabetic retinopathy in 2021, affecting 9.6 million individuals
- Vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy affected 5.1% of US children and adults with diabetes, equivalent to 1.84 million people
- Long-term glycemic control and routine dilated eye examinations play a vital role in preventing vision loss from diabetic retinopathy
Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy in the US in 2021
Go to source). This article provides an overview of their findings and emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment. The researchers utilized data from various sources in the United States to create composite estimates of the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy. They analyzed population-based studies published after 2000 and applied prevalence estimates to 2021 US census data. The study also generated estimates at the county and state levels.
Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy
The study revealed that in 2021, approximately 9.6 million people, accounting for 26.4% of US children and adults with diabetes, had diabetic retinopathy. The prevalence of this condition increased with age, reaching a peak before declining in the oldest age groups. Among individuals with diabetes, crude diabetic retinopathy prevalence rates varied by state, ranging from 20.8% in Nevada to 31.3% in Massachusetts.Prevalence of Vision-Threatening Diabetic Retinopathy
The research estimated that 1.84 million people, constituting 5.1% of US children and adults with diabetes, had vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy in 2021. Vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy refers to a more severe stage of the condition that can lead to significant vision loss if left untreated.
Diabetic Retinopathy - Risk Factors - Symptoms - Treatment - Diagnosis - FAQs
The term ‘diabetic retinopathy’ refers to changes in the retina which often occur in people with diabetes.
The term ‘diabetic retinopathy’ refers to changes in the retina which often occur in people with diabetes.
‘New research reveals alarming statistics on diabetic retinopathy in the US. Discover prevalence, impact, and key prevention measures to safeguard vision. #DiabeticRetinopathy #VisionHealth
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The authors of the study emphasized the importance of preventing vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy. They stressed that achieving long-term glycemic control and undergoing routine dilated eye examinations are crucial for the timely detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy. The following takeaways can guide healthcare professionals and individuals with diabetes:
- Regular Eye Examinations: Routine dilated eye examinations should be an integral part of diabetes management. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and better outcomes.
- Long-Term Glycemic Control: Maintaining stable blood glucose levels over time is essential in reducing the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Healthcare providers should work closely with individuals with diabetes to develop personalized glycemic control plans.
- Education and Awareness: Healthcare professionals should raise awareness about diabetic retinopathy among patients with diabetes, emphasizing the potential risks and the importance of regular eye screenings.
- Access to Healthcare Services: Efforts should be made to ensure that individuals with diabetes have access to healthcare services, including comprehensive eye care, regardless of their geographical location.
Reference:
- Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy in the US in 2021 - (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/article-abstract/2806093)
Diabetic Retinopathy Can Worsen With Low Blood Sugar Levels
People with diabetes who have low blood sugar episodes, which are prevalent in people new to blood sugar management, are more likely to have progressive diabetic eye damage.
People with diabetes who have low blood sugar episodes, which are prevalent in people new to blood sugar management, are more likely to have progressive diabetic eye damage.
Diabetic Retinopathy Affects 1 in 3 People With Uncontrolled Diabetes
Diabetic retinopathy can affect one out of every three patients with uncontrolled diabetes for 10-12 years.
Diabetic retinopathy can affect one out of every three patients with uncontrolled diabetes for 10-12 years.
Sleep Apnea Linked to Diabetic Retinopathy
Sleep apnea is linked to damage to the retina of the eye in diabetics. It causes a fall in blood oxygen levels, insulin resistance, macular edema, which damages the retina.
Sleep apnea is linked to damage to the retina of the eye in diabetics. It causes a fall in blood oxygen levels, insulin resistance, macular edema, which damages the retina.
