From NHANES 2005–2017: Weight-adjusted waist index and diabetic retinopathy among the general U.S. population

This research sought to investigate the link between the weight-adjusted waist index and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 2005 to 2018 were utilized in this cross-sectional study. Using multivariable logistic regression, the relationship between the weight-adjusted waist index and DR was examined. Moreover, generalized additive models as well as smooth curve fitting techniques were used. This cross-sectional study involved 2001 individuals, comprising 1031 men and 970 women, with an average age of 59.4 ± 13.8 years. The comprehensive model, accounting for multiple variables, indicated an inverse relationship between the weight-adjusted waist index and DR (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.02–1.70). Subgroup analyses revealed a positive link between the weight-adjusted waist index and DR among women, individuals aged 50 and above, and Non-Hispanic Whites. Furthermore, we identified both the direct and inverse relationships between the weight-adjusted waist index and DR by creating a smooth graph. In the general American population, the weight-adjusted waist index is positively associated with DR according to our research. Future studies should investigate the impact of the weight-adjusted waist index on diabetic complications and identify possible mechanisms.