The level of education and the risk for retinal detachments and breaks: A registry-based case-control study

Purpose: Myopia is the most important risk factor for developing retinal tears and retinal detachment (RD). Due to altered lifestyle factors myopia is increasing in the world. In this study, the correlation between educational level and risk for retinal detachment were analysed. Methods: A case-control registry study was conducted including a total of 10 268 individuals. Data were collected from registries of the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare as well as the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics. Cases were defined as ICD-10 H33 (retinal detachments and breaks). For each case, a matched control was selected with the same age and sex, living in the same county at the time of diagnosis. The study population was divided into seven groups with regard to educational level and compared using conditional logistic regression. Results: In the total population, the odds ratio (OR) increased in a proportional fashion with a higher level of education. The odds ratio for the total population at the highest education level was 1.77 and increased to 2.00 when excluding individuals with diabetes. Out of the 5134 cases, 72% were men and 28% women. A statistically significant difference between sexes was only confirmed for the second highest education level. Conclusion: Individuals with a longer education have a significantly higher risk for retinal complications in the form of RD and breaks. Higher education is a risk factor for retinal complications in both sexes but seemingly more strongly in men.