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Unveiling the link between lifestyle risk factors and diabetic retinopathy

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International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Introduction

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is recognized as a significant complication of diabetes and continues to be a prominent contributor to global blindness. Epidemiological investigations have pinpointed various lifestyle risk factors accountable for the onset and progression of DR. However, pinpointing the most influential factors is challenging due to variability in ethnic background, study design, and sample size in previous research.

Methodology

In the present study, a systematic and comprehensive review was conducted to identify significant factors contributing to DR development. Following the PRISMA guidelines, 322 articles were screened, and six articles discussing various lifestyle factors were included.

Result

Elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), abnormal lipid profiles (dyslipidemia), high blood pressure (hypertension), and the duration of diabetes have been identified as the predominant lifestyle risk factors associated with the development and progression of DR. Furthermore, male gender was also linked to the occurrence of DR.

Conclusion

While gender is beyond control, the other identified factors associated with DR can be managed through improved eating habits and regular exercise. Future investigations should prioritize exploring the collective influence of these factors on the development and progression of DR.

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Data availability

No data was used for the research described in the article.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Applied Sciences & Humanities, GLA University, Mathura, UP, 281406, India

    Pragati Upadhayay, Himanshu Gupta & Ruhi Sikka

  2. Department of Ophthalmology, KD Medical College and Research Center, Mathura, UP, India

    Neha Singh

  3. Department of Medicine, KD Medical College and Research Center, Mathura, UP, India

    Manju Pandey

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  1. Pragati Upadhayay
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  2. Neha Singh
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  3. Manju Pandey
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  4. Himanshu Gupta
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  5. Ruhi Sikka
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Correspondence to Himanshu Gupta or Ruhi Sikka.

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Upadhayay, P., Singh, N., Pandey, M. et al. Unveiling the link between lifestyle risk factors and diabetic retinopathy. Int J Diabetes Dev Ctries (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13410-024-01332-6

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