A Cross-Sectional Study on Diabetic Retinopathy Patients with Association to Daihik Prakriti

Abstract

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of visual impairment worldwide, primarily resulting from prolonged hyperglycaemia that damages the retinal microvasculature. It is a common complication of both Type I and Type II Diabetes Mellitus and often progresses insidiously until advanced stages, leading to vision-threatening conditions such as macular oedema, retinal hemorrhage, and neovascularization. Daihik Prakriti (DP), a fundamental Ayurvedic concept, classifies individuals based on the predominance of Tridoshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It plays a vital role in predicting disease susceptibility and guiding individualized preventive and therapeutic strategies. Aim & Objective: This study aimed to assess the association between diabetic retinopathy and Daihik prakriti in Type 2 diabetic patients. Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 patients of DR selected from OPD of Shalakya Tantra dept at PTKLS, Bhopal. Data was collected using a CCRAS Prakriti assessment scale and a detailed dilated examination was done. Result: Most patients were aged 61–70 years (47.5%) and male (62.5%), with 87.5% showing uncontrolled diabetes. Pitta Pradhan Prakriti was most prevalent (45%), especially the Pitta-Kapha subtype (32.5%). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggests that there is a significant association between Daihik Prakriti and diabetic retinopathy and knowing one’s own Prakriti can be an effective diagnostic and predictive tool for early diagnosis, prevention, and management through personalized approach.