Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Diabetes is a growing global health concern, with numerous complications affecting multiple body systems. Blindness and visual impairment are among the most distressing outcomes of diabetes. However, less attention has been given to understanding the relationship between blindness and other comorbidities in diabetic populations. This study aimed to provide an epidemiological overview of the prevalence of blindness and its association with co-morbidities in a sample of diabetic individuals. An epidemiological cross-sectional study was conducted, encompassing a sample of 400 diabetic individuals. Data on blindness, visual impairments and various co-morbidities were collected through structured interviews and medical examinations. Associations between blindness and co-morbidities were analyzed using logistic regression models, controlling for potential confounders. The prevalence of blindness among the diabetic participants was found to be 10.75%. Common co-morbidities observed in this group included hypertension (33.75%), cardiovascular disease (15%) and renal disorders (8.75%). Blind individuals were significantly more likely to have hypertension (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.2-2.7), cardiovascular disease (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.4-3.0) and renal disorders (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.1-2.3) compared to those without blindness. Furthermore, neuropathy also exhibited a significant association with blindness (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.2-2.2), underlining the complexity of co-morbidities in diabetic individuals. Blindness in diabetic populations is associated with several co-morbidities, highlighting the need for comprehensive medical care for these individuals. Health practitioners and policymakers should be aware of these associations to improve management strategies and reduce the burden of complications in diabetic patients.
How to cite this article:
Dharmendra Patil. Blindness and Co-Morbidities: An Epidemiological Cross-Sectional Overview in Diabetic Populations.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.9.75.79
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.9.75.79