The Relationship between Vitamin D Levels and Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Study at KIMS Ophthalmology Department (Code-T0086)

Introduction: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common and serious complication of diabetes, potentially leading to vision loss. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to various diabetic complications, but its association with diabetic retinopathy remains inconclusive. This study aims to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and the presence and severity of diabetic retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes patients at the KIMS Ophthalmology Department.

Aims and Objective:

Aim:
To determine if Vitamin D levels are related to diabetic retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes patients visiting the KIMS Ophthalmology Department.

Objectives:

1. To evaluate the role of vitamin D levels as a potential risk factor in the development of diabetic retinopathy.
2. To investigate the correlation between vitamin D deficiency and the presence of diabetic retinopathy.
3. To examine the extent of diabetic retinopathy alterations based on vitamin D levels, categorized as

• Normal vitamin D levels (>30 ng/dl)
• Insufficient vitamin D levels (20-30 ng/dl)
• Deficient vitamin D levels (<20 ng/dl)

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 patients with Type 2 diabetes, who were categorized into three groups based on their vitamin D levels: normal (>30 ng/dl), insufficient (20-30 ng/dl), and deficient (<20 ng/dl). Diabetic retinopathy was assessed using fundus photography and classified based on severity. Blood samples were analyzed for vitamin D levels. Statistical analyses were performed to explore the relationship between vitamin D levels and diabetic retinopathy.

Results: A significant correlation was found between low vitamin D levels and the severity of diabetic retinopathy. Patients with deficient vitamin D levels exhibited more advanced stages of retinopathy compared to those with normal or insufficient levels.

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk and severity of diabetic retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes patients. This highlights the importance of monitoring and managing vitamin D levels in diabetic patients to potentially reduce the risk of retinopathy progression.

Keywords: Vitamin D, Diabetic Retinopathy, Type 2 Diabetes, Retinopathy Severity, Ophthalmology, Vitamin D Deficiency.