BackgroundDiabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults in industrialized countries and the emerging cause of blindness in developing countries. The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of DR and risk factors associated with it among diabetic patients.MethodsThe analytical cross-sectional survey and eye screenings were carried out among 625 diabetic patients from urban and rural areas of Gegharkunik region. DR was assessed by dilated ophthalmoscopy and defined based on the WHO International Classification of Diseases. The survey instrument, included questions about demographics, disease history, health status, medication use and healthy lifestyle. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze the data.ResultsThe prevalence of DR in the sample was 36.2%. A total of 90.2% of patients with DR had non-proliferative, while 9.8% had proliferative DR. In bivariate analysis, age, diabetes duration, being under insulin treatment, blood glucose level, having non-communicable diseases were significantly associated with DR. In the adjusted analysis being under insulin treatment (OR = 3.24; 95% CI: 1.56–6.75), diabetes duration (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.16–1.31) and age (OR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.08) were independently associated with DR.ConclusionEarlier diagnosis of diabetes and DR can help to control some of these factors and prevent further complications and vision loss. Population-based educational programs on diabetes and diabetic retinopathy and continuous medical education on diabetes management can improve diabetes care and self-management and prevent eye complications.

Visual impairment was significantly associated with depression in socially vulnerable older adults in Armenia. Timely eye screenings in similar population groups could lead to early detection of visual impairment and prevention of visual loss and associated mental health problems.

The study found that a positive family history of myopia and environmental factors had independent associations with myopia. The number of near work hours did not play a major role in the development of myopia, but length of time of focused continuous reading did.

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