Risk Factors for Retinal Detachment: A Case-Control Study

Objective:The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors for retinal detachment or tear (RD/T), and follow up two studies that found increased risk from work-related heavy lifting.Methods:We conducted a case-control study including 200 cases of RD/T and 415 controls. Participants completed a questionnaire covering general health, vision, and physical exertion. Multiple logistic regression and propensity score matching was used to control confounding and estimate independent effects.Results:RD/T risk was increased by one lifting measure: current regular lifting of more than 30lbs (>13.6kg). In the population aged less than 65 years, the odds ratio comparing those with/without heavy lifting was 1.81, 95% confidence interval=1.08 to 3.04.Conclusion:Occupational heavy lifting may represent a risk factor for RD/T, but further research is needed in populations with frequent heavy physical exertion to more precisely quantify the risk.