Retinopathy related to heart failure

A degenerative disease of the retina, known as retinopathy, is a risk factor for heart failure, even in the absence of pre-existing heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes. Retinopathy is a known marker for blood vessel disease throughout the body, which is thought to play a role in the development of heart failure. Still, it was unclear if retinopathy was a predictor of heart failure. Researchers from the University of Melbourne in Australia analysed the data from 11,612 subjects who participated in a population-based study that lasted for 7 years. Photographs of the retina were taken and evaluated for retinopathy. Heart failure was determined through hospital and death records. The rate of heart failure during follow-up was 5.4 per cent. The rate of heart failure among subjects with retinopathy was much higher than that seen among subjects without retinopathy, at 15.1 and 4.8 per cent, respectively. It was found that after adjusting for various factors that may have influenced the association, retinopathy remained a strong predictor of heart failure by nearly doubling the risk. Moreover, in subjects without pre-existing heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, the presence of retinopathy almost tripled the risk of heart failure. The findings suggest that it may be worthwhile to screen people with retinopathy for heart failure, even if they don't have symptoms of heart trouble.

DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.

Was this Article Helpful Yes or No

Web Stories

What Is Motion Sickness. Tips To Prevent It

Summer Foods For Strong Immunity

7 Blood Thinning Foods For Healthy Heart

How To Take Care Of Mental Health?

Benefits Of Aerial Yoga

Tips To Avoid Conjunctivitis

8 Yoga Poses For Kids To Help Increase Height

Must Try Tips To Build Stamina

Lemon: A Multipurpose Starter Pack

Yoga Asanas To Release Negative Thoughts