Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. Early detection and timely management are essential to reduce the risk of vision loss among diabetic patients. This study aims to determine the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and identify associated risk factors among diabetic patients.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Baba Gurgur Diabetic Center, K1 Hospital, in Kirkuk city, from November 2019 to May 2020. A total of 750 diabetic patients were enrolled to assess the prevalence and risk factors of DR.
Result: The mean age was 55 years (range: 23–80); 54.9% were male and 45.1% female. DR was detected in 115 patients (15.3%), while 635 (84.7%) had no signs of DR. No significant gender difference was noted. DR prevalence increased with age, especially in those aged 50 and above. The mean HbA1c was significantly higher in the DR group (10.3%) compared to the non-DR group (8.5%). Hypertension was more common in DR patients (60.9%) than in non-DR patients (42.5%). Smoking was also more prevalent among the DR group (30.4%) compared to the non-DR group (22%). Type I diabetes was significantly associated with DR (22.6% in DR group vs. 16.2% in non-DR group). No significant association was found between DR and education level.
Conclusions: A notable prevalence of DR was found among Iraqi diabetic patients. Poor glycemic control, hypertension, smoking, and type I diabetes were significantly associated with DR. These findings support the need for early screening and improved management of risk factors to prevent DR-related vision loss.