Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence, Severity and Associated Risk Factors

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a frequent microvascular complication of diabetes and a leading cause of visual impairment that can be prevented. A longer duration of diabetes, inadequate glycemic control, and nephropathy are significant risk factors. Even though it imposes a considerable burden, evidence from Bangladesh is still scarce. This study evaluated the prevalence, severity, and related risk factors of DR in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods & Materials: From January to December 2025, a cross-sectional study based in a hospital was carried out among 284 adults with T2DM in Bangladesh. Data on demographics, clinical features, and biochemical parameters were gathered, and DR was evaluated and graded through ophthalmological examination. The associations were examined using suitable statistical tests along with multivariable logistic regression, with p<0.05 regarded as significant. Results: Among the 284 patients, DR was found in 99 (34.9%), and mild NPDR was the most frequently observed grade (14.1%). DR showed a significant association with older age, longer duration of diabetes, smoking, poor glycemic control, and diabetic nephropathy. Patients with DR had significantly higher mean age, diabetes duration, fasting glucose, HbA1c, and serum creatinine. Following adjustment, age ≥50 years, diabetes duration ≥10 years, HbA1c ≥7.0%, and diabetic nephropathy stayed independently associated with DR. Conclusion: DR was prevalent in patients with T2DM, and its occurrence was independently linked to older age, longer diabetes duration, poor glycemic control, and diabetic nephropathy. Prompt retinal screening along with thorough management of glycemic and renal risk factors could assist in lowering the burden and progression of DR.