Abstract
Objective: To investigate the prevalence and related risk factors associated with coronary heart disease(CHD) among middle aged and elderly patients with vision impairment (VI). Study design: cross-sectional research. Methods: The study was conducted with 1,355 visually impaired adults over 45 years old, recruited from a Rehabilitation Hospital in China. Visual impairment is diagnosed by a doctor according to guidelines. Data was analyzed using multiple correspondence and logistic regression analysis. This research represents an important step towards the development of empirically based practical suggestions for decision-makers and health professionals that support visually impaired middle-aged and elderly people to participate in physical exercise and weight management when needed. Results: Of the 1335 middle aged and elderly adults with VI, a total of 154 (11.5%) developed CHD. Statistical analysis based on age grouping indicated that hypertension, diabetes, blindness, gentle and moderate activity were shown to have a strong association with development of CHD. In addition, fasting plasma glucose, heart rate (<60), and BMI were important risk factors for CHD in the middle-aged group and the elderly group respectively.Conclusion: Suggestions for related policy changes should focus on the social and environmental aspects. This includes developing a more accessible and inclusive environments and providing meaningful information about physical activity and weight management to middle-aged and elderly people with visually impaired.