RISK OF RETINOPATHY IN DIABETIS MELLITUS PATIENT

Diabetes mellitus has emerged as a significant global health concern, particularly given its intricate association with various microvascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR). A substantial population burden exists, with diabetes affecting millions worldwide and leading to complications that severely impair quality of life. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the prevalence of microvascular issues, such as DR, is alarmingly high; studies indicate that nearly 49% of individuals with T2DM are affected by some form of retinopathy (Audu et al.). Additionally, risk factors such as hypertension, prolonged diabetes duration, and anemia further exacerbate the likelihood of developing DR, even in patients with normoalbuminuria (Irsath et al.). This underscores the pressing need for early detection and management of risk factors to prevent sight-threatening complications, highlighting the complexity of diabetes impact on visual health.