Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy in the UAE
Author Information
Author(s): Fatma Al-Maskari, Mohammed El-Sadig
Primary Institution: United Arab Emirates University
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and determinants of diabetic retinopathy among diabetics in Al-Ain city, UAE?
Conclusion
The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in the UAE was found to be 19%, significantly affecting elderly males.
Supporting Evidence
- Retinopathy was present in 19% of the study population.
- 74% of patients with retinopathy were unaware of their condition.
- The disease was more common among males and increased with age and disease duration.
- Type I diabetes was a significant risk factor for retinopathy.
Takeaway
This study found that 19 out of every 100 diabetic patients in the UAE have diabetic retinopathy, especially older men.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among diabetic patients in Al-Ain, UAE, using random sampling and medical assessments.
Potential Biases
Potential under-diagnosis of diabetes may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Limitations
The study may have overestimated the prevalence of retinopathy due to assumptions about patients with blindness and cataract.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 51.5% males, 27% aged 60 or above, and 75% were UAE nationals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 15.1–23.5%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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