A retrospective study analysis of the pattern of retinal diseases in Seiyun, Yemen

Abstract

Retinal diseases constitute an important and growing cause of visual impairment in Yemen, although nationwide epidemiological data remain limited. Hospital-based studies have shown that diabetic retinopathy (DR) affects approximately half of patients aged 50 years and above, while retinal detachment (RD) and macular degeneration (AMD) affect a quarter of the patients. This highlights the substantial burden of sight-threatening retinal disease in the country and the need for early detection and national-level retinal screening programs.

This retrospective study aimed to estimate the burden and gender-wise distribution of retinal diseases among patients attending the retina eye outpatient department at Roaya Eye Hospital and Retina Institute in Seiyun, Yemen, between July 2024 and December 2024. Data from 850 patients, including demographic information, final diagnoses of retinal conditions, and treatment types, were extracted from the hospital’s Health Information System (HIS) database. SPSS v26.0 to determine frequencies and percentages. The results showed that out of 850 participants, 28.7% were diagnosed with retinal diseases. Retinal diseases were more common in males (19.3%) than in females (9.4%). The most common retinal diseases were PDR (Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy) (6.8%), RD (Retinal Detachment) (4.2%), and VH (Vitreous Hemorrhage) (4.0%), respectively, while NPDR (Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy) accounted for 2.7% of the cases. Other conditions like AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) (0.6%) and RP (Retinitis Pigmentosa) (0.5%) showed lower frequencies. Management strategies included glasses, laser therapy, intravitreal injection (e.g., anti-VEGF), and vitreoretinal surgery.

Retinal diseases constitute a substantial health burden in Seiyun, Yemen, primarily driven by Diabetic retinopathy, Retinal detachment, and Vitreous hemorrhage. These findings emphasize the urgent need for enhanced public health awareness, specialized ophthalmological training, and improved access to effective treatment modalities to mitigate vision loss in the region.