Background Blindness and vision loss caused by diabetes mellitus remain common complications that significantly impair patients' quality of life. This study aimed to examine global, regional, and national trends in the burden of blindness and vision loss resulting from diabetes mellitus.
Methods Data on the prevalence and years lived with disability (YLDs) attributable to blindness and vision loss due to diabetes mellitus between 1990 and 2021 were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021. Absolute numbers, age-standardized rates (ASR), and average annual percentage changes (AAPC) in prevalence and YLDs were analyzed at global, regional, and national levels. Trends were further analyzed according to age, gender, and Sociodemographic Index (SDI). Joinpoint regression was utilized to detect temporal inflection points and quantify trend changes. Additionally, a Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model was employed to project the global burden up to 2050.
Results Globally, the age-standardized prevalence of diabetes-related blindness and vision loss increased from 62.69 per 100,000 in 1990 to 111.05 in 2021 (AAPC 1.61), alongside an increase in YLDs. Medium-SDI regions experienced the heaviest and fastest-growing burden, with Central Latin America ranking highest among all regions. Mexico and Mauritius showed the highest national ASPR and YLDs. Rates were consistently higher in women and increased with age. BAPC projections estimate that global ASPR and YLDs will reach 134.98 and 10.91, respectively, by 2050.
Conclusions Blindness and vision loss from diabetes mellitus represent a growing global burden. Preventive strategies, particularly targeting women and older adults, should therefore be prioritized and supported by evidence-based interventions.
[1]Wannan Med Coll, Wannan, Anhui, Peoples R China.
[2]Chengdu Univ Tradit Chinese Med, Clin Med Coll, Chengdu, Sichuan, Peoples R China.
(8.0+极速模式)