Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of hyperglycemia on visual acuity in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted by volunteers from Al-Maarefa University at a mall in Riyadh, involving a sample of 148 visitors, including both male and female participants as well as individuals with or without diabetes. The study included adults aged 18 years and older. Participants were interviewed to obtain information regarding their age, gender, and diabetes status.
Results: The average age of participants was 38 years, with a mean random blood glucose (RBG) level of 112.81 mg/dl, revealing a diabetes prevalence of 12.84% among the cohort. Regarding visual acuity in the affected eye, the predominant measurement recorded was 6/9. A statistically significant correlation was observed between age and RBG levels in nondiabetic participants (p-value = 0.015).
Conclusion: The findings demonstrated a significant statistical correlation between age and RBG levels. Additional research is warranted to elucidate the factors contributing to hyperglycemia and enhance awareness of the complications associated with prolonged hyperglycemic states.

Key words: Random blood glucose, random blood sugar, hyperglycemia, visual acuity, eye examination.