Clinical Report: Examining the Link Between Estimated Glucose Disposal Rate and Self-Reported Diabetic Retinopathy

Overview

This study investigates the relationship between estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) and the prevalence of self-reported diabetic retinopathy (DR) using data from NHANES and a clinical cohort. Findings indicate a significant negative correlation between eGDR and DR prevalence.

Background

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision impairment among individuals with diabetes, affecting approximately 160 million people globally. Insulin resistance is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of DR, yet the association between eGDR and DR prevalence has not been fully characterized.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• eGDR shows a significant negative correlation with self-reported DR prevalence (OR = 0.79, P = 0.0049).
• Subgroup and sensitivity analyses confirm the stability of the negative association between eGDR and DR.
• The Boruta algorithm identifies eGDR as a robust feature in predicting DR prevalence.
• XGBoost and random forest models demonstrate moderate predictive performance for DR prevalence estimation.
• SHAP analysis indicates eGDR, body mass index, and income poverty as key determinants of self-reported DR prevalence.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate a significant negative correlation between eGDR and DR prevalence.

Conclusion

This study highlights the association between lower eGDR and higher prevalence of self-reported diabetic retinopathy. Further prospective research is needed to explore the causal relationship between these factors.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers in Medicine, 2026 -- Detection of Referable Diabetic Retinopathy using Machine Learning on Routine Clinical Data
2. conexiant, 2026 -- Can Diabetic Eye Testing Be Simplified?
3. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026 -- A clinically interpretable machine learning model for early detection of diabetic retinopathy in multiple community health centers
4. Standards of Care in Diabetes | ADA Clinical Guidelines, 2026
5. Frontiers in Endocrinology — Development of a risk stratification tool for rapidly progressive diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes
6. Standards of Care in Diabetes | ADA Clinical Guidelines
7. Effect of Intensive Diabetes Therapy on the Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: 18 Years of Follow-up in the DCCT/EDIC - PMC
8. Frontiers | Estimated glucose disposal rate and severe abdominal aortic calcification: evidence from a nationally representative study with external validation