Diabetic Retinopathy in Native and Nonnative Canadians
Author Information
Author(s): Ross Stuart A., McKenna Anne, Mozejko Sheila, Fick Gordon H.
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
Do native populations have different prevalence rates of diabetic retinopathy compared to nonnative populations?
Conclusion
The prevalence rates of diabetic retinopathy are identical in native and nonnative subjects, but native subjects tend to have more advanced retinopathy.
Supporting Evidence
- Prevalence rates of diabetic retinopathy were identical at 40% for both native and nonnative subjects.
- Native subjects with retinopathy had more advanced changes compared to nonnative subjects.
- Key risk factors like A1c, blood pressure, and duration of diabetes were not significantly different between the two groups.
Takeaway
This study found that both native and nonnative Canadians have the same rates of diabetic eye disease, but the native Canadians often have worse cases.
Methodology
The study assessed the prevalence and incidence of diabetic retinopathy in native and nonnative subjects in southern Alberta, using a combination of questionnaires, blood tests, and ophthalmology assessments.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in recruitment methods and self-reported data.
Limitations
The study may not represent all native populations due to geographical and cultural differences.
Participant Demographics
The study included 232 native and 2015 nonnative subjects with Type 2 diabetes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = .98 for retinopathy rates; P = .0002 for degree of retinopathy.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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