Retinal vascular “fingerprint” may help predict stroke risk noninvasively

HUNG HOM, KOWLOON, HONG KONG: A groundbreaking study has revealed that a vascular "fingerprint" in the retina can predict a person’s stroke risk, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional testing methods. Researchers analyzed retinal fundus images of over 45,000 participants from the U.K. Biobank study, identifying 29 key vascular indicators linked to stroke risk.

These indicators include density, caliber, complexity, and twistedness of retinal blood vessels. Each change in these parameters was associated with a 10-19% increased risk of first-time stroke. The findings suggest that retinal analysis, combined with basic factors like age and gender, can match the accuracy of traditional risk models that often rely on invasive tests.

Dr. Mingguang He, the study's lead author and Chair Professor of Experimental Ophthalmology at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, emphasized the accessibility of retinal imaging. “The noninvasive nature of retinal analysis paves the way for easier, more accessible stroke risk screening, especially in primary care settings,” he noted.

Experts like Dr. Alexander Solomon, a neuro-ophthalmologist, praised the study for formalizing the connection between retinal vascular changes and stroke risk. He highlighted that the retina, as an extension of the brain, reflects systemic vascular conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Dr. Christopher Yi, a vascular surgeon, called the discovery “groundbreaking,” adding that it could revolutionize preventive medicine by integrating stroke risk assessments into routine eye exams, particularly in underserved communities.

The study underscores the potential of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex health challenges and improving early detection to reduce the global burden of stroke.