Zhaneta Yaneva

Dr. Zhaneta Yaneva


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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21 October 2024 in Diagnostics
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
ZZZornitsa Ivanova Zlatarova
Zornitsa Ivanova Zlatarova
EHElitsa Hristova
Elitsa Hristova
KBKristina Bliznakova
Kristina Bliznakova
VAVirginia Atanasova
Virginia Atanasova
ZYZhaneta Yaneva
Zhaneta Yaneva
KDKlara Dokova
Klara Dokova
Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of visual impairment globally among working-aged individuals. This study aims to update data on DR prevalence in Bulgaria. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted between 1 January 2022 and 1 January 2023, using a local diabetes registry from the city of Varna as a sampling framework. In total, 587 diabetic patients underwent DR examination. Data included demographics, diabetes type/duration, treatment, and ophthalmic history. DR status was assessed using indirect slit-lamp biomicroscopy or digital fundus photography, graded by the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy Scale. Results: Of 587 participants, 13 were excluded due to cataract-related ungradable images. The median age was 65 years (IQR 56–73), with a slight female predominance (54%). The overall prevalence of any DR was 39.9% (95% CI 35.9–44.0), with non-proliferative DR (NPDR) at 27.5%, proliferative DR (PDR) at 7.3%, and macular edema (DME) at 5%. Type 1 diabetes patients had significantly higher DR prevalence (68.8%) than type 2 (34.1%, p < 0.001). Men exhibited higher DR prevalence. Age and diabetes duration correlated positively with DR prevalence. Insulin treatment was associated with higher DR prevalence (55.6%) than oral antidiabetic treatment (22.5%, p < 0.001) for type 2 diabetes patients. Among those diagnosed with DR, 70.9% received treatment, mainly laser therapy. Conclusions: These findings provide epidemiological insights for future research and emphasize the need for a comprehensive national DR screening program in Bulgaria. Technological advancements enable proactive measures to mitigate DR-related visual impairment and blindness, including widespread screening, even in rural areas.