Effect of obesity on retinal vascular structure in pre-adolescent children

Abstract

Objectives. In adults, obesity is linked to changes in the retinal microvasculature. Limited research has been conducted into this association in children. We examined in a cohort of pre-adolescents the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and retinal vascular structure, including retinal vessel diameter and retinal vessel fractals, a measure of geometric patterns reflecting vessel density. Methods. A population-based study among school children (2 353/3 144 [75.3%], median age, 12.7 years) recruited from a random cluster sample of 21 schools was conducted during 20045. Retinal images were taken and vessel diameter and fractal dimension were quantified using computer-based programs following standardized protocols. Anthropometric measures (weight, height, waist circumference, and BMI) were obtained and defined using standardized protocols. Results. Children with the highest quartile of BMI had narrower retinal arteriolar diameter (2.8 μm narrower, p