Examining trends in diabetic retinal disease in the U.S.
Official title: Trends in US Rates of Diabetic Retinal Disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11002694 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how common diabetic retinal disease is, especially among different racial and ethnic groups, to help improve eye care and treatment for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $203,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY035707-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002694 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diabetes, particularly those from racial and ethnic minority groups who are at higher risk for diabetic retinal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any risk factors for diabetic retinal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the prevalence and incidence of diabetic retinal disease (DRD), which is a leading cause of vision loss among working-age adults. The study aims to update outdated data on DRD rates, particularly focusing on racial and ethnic disparities that have not been adequately addressed in over a decade. By analyzing national trends and utilizing more current data, the research seeks to provide a clearer understanding of how DRD affects different populations and inform public health policies. Patients may benefit from improved screening and treatment strategies based on the findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for diabetic retinal disease, ultimately reducing vision loss among affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has highlighted disparities in diabetic retinal disease but has not provided updated national data, making this approach both necessary and timely.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vanderbeek, Brian L. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Vanderbeek, Brian L.
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.