Global prevalence of myopic macular degeneration in general population and patients with high myopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

The prevalence of myopic macular degeneration (MMD) in the general population and patients with high myopia worldwide has not been fully investigated. Therefore, we screened all population-based studies that reported the prevalence of MMD, and pooled prevalence of MMD using a random-effect model. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore the differences in MMD prevalence in the general population and patients with high myopia according to ethnicity, region of residence (urban/rural), and grading system. Finally, 16 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Results obtained from 2,963 patients from seven countries on four continents indicated that the pooled prevalence of MMD in patients with high myopia was 49.0% (95% CI: 31.5%–66.7%). Results obtained from 71,052 participants from 10 countries on four continents suggested that the pooled prevalence of MMD in the general population was 1.7% (95% CI: 1.1%–2.6%). In the general population, living in urban areas and East Asians were associated with a high prevalence of MMD. Among patients with high myopia, only East Asians were at a higher risk of developing MMD. In conclusion, MMD was particularly prevalent in patients with high myopia. Compared with Europeans, East Asians (Chinese and Japanese) have a higher propensity of developing MMD, both in the general population and in patients with high myopia. It remains unclear whether the higher prevalence of MMD in patients with high myopia in East Asia is caused by differences in given age or given degree of myopia. Systematic review registration number: 202270014 (INPLASY.COM).

No Evidence of an Association between Genetic Factors Affecting Response to Vitamin A Supplementation and Myopia: A Mendelian Randomization Study and Meta-Analysis

“…Projections indicate that by 2050, half of the global population will be myopic [ 1 , 2 ]. Myopia is a complex condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors and is also associated with multiple ocular diseases such as retinoschisis, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, potentially leading to permanent vision loss in severe cases [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. Therefore, considering the continuous increase in myopia prevalence and its adverse consequences, identifying risk factors and understanding its pathogenesis are crucial for effective prevention and delay of its onset.…”