Diabetic retinopathy in African–Americans with end-stage kidney disease: a cross-sectional study on prevalence and impact on quality of life

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence, severity, and quality of life (QoL) impact of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among African–Americans (AAs) with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) undergoing dialysis are unknown. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 93 AA adults with diabetes and ESKD. The diagnosis of DR was based on a review of medical records and/or a positive photograph with a portable hand-held device reviewed by both artificial intelligence software and a retinal specialist. QoL, physical disability social determinants of health (SDoHs) were assessed by standardized questionnaires. RESULTS: The prevalence of DR was 75%, with 33% of participants having mild, 9.6% moderate and 57.4% severe DR. A total of 43% had normal visual acuity; 45% had moderate visual impairment; and 12% had severe visual impairment. We found a high burden of disease, multiple SDoH challenges, and low QoL and general health among patients with ESKD. The presence of DR had no significant impact on physical health and QoL compared with participants without DR. CONCLUSIONS: DR is present in 75% of AA patients with diabetes and ESKD on haemodialysis. ESKD has a significant burden on general health and QoL; however, DR has a minor additional impact on the overall physical health and QoL in people with ESKD.