This study aims to test the impact of new-generation anti-diabetic drugs, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors, on the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The study hypothesizes that these drugs have protective effects in diabetic retinopathy by delaying its incidence compared to older agents (including metformin) only. Early intervention is critical, as treatment options for advanced stages of DR are limited in terms of their ability to restore impaired vision and their high associated costs. By focusing on delaying the occurrence of diabetic retinopathy, the investigators aim to reduce the burden of DR and improve the quality of life for diabetic patients.
This is a Cross-Sectional Study
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
70
Alexandria University Main Hospitals - Diabetes clinics/ Ophthalmology clinics
Alexandria, Egypt
RECRUITINGThe level of diabetic retinopathy, measured using Optos Ultra-widefield (UWF) Retinal Imaging, reported as ICDR (International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy) score (0-4 scale).
Where 0 indicates no apparent diabetic retinopathy and 4 indicates proliferative diabetic retinopathy; higher scores indicate more severe (worse) diabetic retinopathy.
Time frame: Assessed once per participant at baseline.
Glycemic control measured by HbA1c level using a standardized laboratory analyzer and reported in %.
Time frame: Assessed once per participant at baseline.
Renal function measured by serum creatinine level using a standardized laboratory analyzer and reported in mg/dL.
Time frame: Assessed once per participant at baseline.
Kidney damage status measured by UACR (Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio) using a standardized laboratory assay and reported as mg/g.
Time frame: Assessed once per participant at baseline.
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