المجلة الدولية للعلوم والتقنية

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition of the eyes that can affect people with diabetes. This is the degree at which the retina's blood vessels are damaged by high blood sugar. These vascular structures can expand and rupture. Additionally, the vessels might close, preventing the circulation of blood. Sometimes, abnormally new blood vessels might grow on the retina. Any of the foregoing changes could impair your vision. The aim of this study is to identify risk factors that may enhance the development of diabetic retinopathy and explore strategies for reducing the possibility of visual impairment caused by this condition. A prospective cross-sectional study of diabetic patients registered at the Eye Department of Tobruk Medical Center in Tobruk, Libya between (01.06.2023 to 29.02.2024). Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Grading of DR (diabetic retinopathy) was done by slit-lamp examination and fundoscopy by an ophthalmologist. Descriptive analysis included percentage, mean of age, and p-value by using SPSS 25. Result: There were 85 diabetic patients, with a mean age of 63.5 and an age range of 31 to 85 years. Of these, 98.8% were of Libyan nationality and 96.4% were place of residencein Tobruk. Forty-three women were present. Compared to individuals with diabetes for less than ten years, those with diabetes for eleven to fifteen years had an almost five-fold increased chance of having diabetic retinopathy disease (DR). Patients with poor diabetes control (HbA1c > 9) had a 25-fold increased chance of developing PR compared to those with adequate control (HbA1c < 7.5). Conclusion: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes and those with the disease for a longer period of time are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy and experience visual impairment. Key word: Diabetic retinopathy, poor diabetes control, longer period of diabetes, Tobruk, Libya.