Aim:

To investigate the risk factors for diabetic retinopathy and maculopathy.

Materials and methods:

This was an observational cohort study of 100 cases of type 2 Diabetes with diabetic retinopathy in atleast one eye conducted atTirunelveli medical college and hospital. Data was collected using a questionnaireand detailed ophthalmic examination was done. Stage of diabetic retinopathy according to Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy (ETDRS) grading system was done. Type of maculopathy was documented using fundus fluorescein angiography. The risk factors were studied and analysed statistically.

Results:

The study demonstrated significant increase in diabetic maculopathy in the sixth decade and suggested a potential role of risk factors like duration of diabetes, treatment non–adherence for diabetes, glaucoma, microalbuminuria and total cholesterol/ HDL ratio for Diabetic retinopathy. Risk factors like family history of diabetic retinopathy, smoking, alcohol, total cholesterol, triglyceride levels, low HDL level and an abnormal A: V ratiofavourmaculopathy.

Conclusion:

The study highlights the need for more social awareness and early screening of diabetic patients and needs frequent follow– up with the risk factors.