Factors Interrelated to Declining Vision Among Diabetic Patients in Sudan

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents a significant global health issue, encompassing a range of heterogeneous disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Diabetes is classified into two types: type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 (T2DM). Diagnosis primarily relies on fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels. Investigating the causes of vision impairment in diabetes is crucial for reducing the rates of blindness. Therefore, implementing screening for early diagnosis is essential to delay complications. Methodology: This study is a prospective descriptive analysis conducted from May 15, 2025, to October 20, 2025. The study was conducted at Doctor Khalil Ophthalmology Clinic in El-Obeid, North Kordofan, Sudan. This study included all individuals with diabetes attending the clinic for follow-up (520 patients). We assessed their visual acuity and selected all patients with poor vision uncorrected by glasses or other means of correction. Results: This study analysed 120 diabetic patients with impaired vision, comprising 58% females and 42% males. The most common condition identified was diabetic retinopathy, affecting 55% of participants, followed by cataract at 54%, hypertension at 46%, glaucoma at 25%, and macular oedema at 17%. Three percent of the cases had newly discovered glaucoma and myopia, and three patients had macular holes. Retinal detachments, corneal ulcers, corneal opacities, and endophthalmitis were also observed. Conclusion: Vision impairment associated with diabetes is prevalent in Sudan, largely attributable to ongoing conflict, which has resulted in inadequate health services and a scarcity of medications for glycaemic control in various regions.