The correlation of serum lipid with Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A case control study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31530/cjnst.2025.1.1.3Keywords:
Age-related macular degeneration, Serum lipid profile, Dyslipidemia, Statin useAbstract
Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common retinal disease that leads to permanent vision loss among older adults. In recent years, researchers have explored the possible link between lipid imbalance and AMD, as disturbances in lipid metabolism may contribute to retinal damage through oxidative stress and inflammation. There is limited evidence from Middle Eastern populations—particularly Iraqi and Kurdish populations—regarding the diagnosis and management of AMD. Therefore, this study contributes valuable insight into the regional epidemiology of AMD.
Objectives: This study was conducted to determine whether serum lipid levels are associated with AMD and to assess whether demographic factors, such as age and statin use, influence this relationship.
Methods: A case-control study was performed in Erbil, Iraq, during the period from 20 October 2024 to 20 July 2025. It recruited 80 patients diagnosed with AMD and 80 age- and sex-matched individuals without the disease. Blood samples were collected after fasting to measure total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. Statistical analysis, including logistic regression, was used to evaluate potential associations and control for confounders.
Results: The AMD group had significantly higher mean levels of total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, and lower HDL levels compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Older age and statin use were also significantly related to AMD status (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: the relationship between serum lipid levels and AMD presents opportunities for early detection and risk stratification of AMD in the clinical setting. Our findings also warrant future research on lipid-modifying interventions and long-term studies to assess causality and therapeutic applications.
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