Retinal Vein Occlusion Epidemiology Forecast 2025-2034

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) refers to a blockage in the veins of the retina, which can disrupt blood circulation, cause inflammation, and potentially lead to vision loss. It affects over 16 million individuals worldwide. Central retinal vein occlusion impacts approximately 1 to 4 in every 1,000 people, while branch retinal vein occlusion is more common, affecting about 6 to 12 in every 1,000 individuals.

Retinal Vein Occlusion Epidemiology Forecast Report Coverage

The Retinal Vein Occlusion Epidemiology Forecast Report 2025-2034 delivers a comprehensive analysis of the condition’s prevalence and associated demographic factors. It projects future incidence and prevalence trends across diverse population groups, considering key variables such as age, gender, and retinal vein occlusion type. The report highlights changes in prevalence over time and offers data-driven forecasts based on influencing factors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth overview of the disease, along with historical and projected epidemiological data for eight key markets:

The United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and India.

Retinal Vein Occlusion:

Disease Overview

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) is a common vascular disorder of the retina that occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, leading to impaired blood flow. This blockage can cause swelling, bleeding, and reduced oxygen supply to retinal tissues, resulting in vision loss. RVO is typically classified into two main types:

Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) and Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO), depending on the location of the blockage. Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma, and cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent permanent vision impairment.

Epidemiology Overview

The Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) epidemiology section presents insights into the patient population from past to present, along with future projections across the eight major markets. The Research analyses a broad range of studies to outline existing and forecasted RVO trends. The report details diagnosed cases across gender, age groups, and overall patient pools.

• RVO is a significant cause of vision impairment, with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) occurring four to six times more frequently than central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Age is a major risk factor.
• Population-based studies estimate prevalence rates of 0.5-2.0% for BRVO and 0.1-0.2% for CRVO, with 15-year incidence rates at 1.8% and 0.2%, respectively.
• Research in Bhutan found 62.4% of 144 RVO patients were male, highlighting a greater prevalence in urban males. Meanwhile, a study in rural Central India showed a 0.8% RVO rate among adults, with BRVO being nearly seven times more common than CRVO.

Retinal Vein Occlusion:

Treatment Overview

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) treatment focuses on reducing macular oedema, preventing neovascular complications, and preserving vision. While no cure exists for the occlusion itself, timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes. The selection of therapy depends on the severity and type of RVO central or branch. Treatments include intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and surgery. Managing underlying systemic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes is also essential. Early diagnosis and consistent follow-up play a crucial role in long-term visual prognosis and quality of life for individuals with RVO.

• Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy

Anti-VEGF injections are currently the first-line treatment for macular oedema secondary to RVO. These drugs, such as ranibizumab, aflibercept, and bevacizumab, work by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is responsible for abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage. Administered directly into the eye, they help reduce swelling, improve vision, and prevent further complications. Regular monthly injections may be required initially, followed by a tapered regimen based on patient response. Anti-VEGF therapies have shown favourable visual outcomes and are widely used in both branch and central RVO cases.

• Intravitreal Corticosteroid Therapy

Corticosteroids, like the dexamethasone intravitreal implant, offer an alternative or adjunct to anti-VEGF agents in treating macular oedema caused by RVO. These implants deliver sustained corticosteroid release, reducing inflammation and fluid accumulation in the retina. While effective in improving visual acuity, corticosteroids may pose risks such as elevated intraocular pressure and cataract formation. They are particularly useful in patients unresponsive to anti-VEGF therapy or those with contraindications. The duration of action typically allows for fewer injections, making it a viable option for select patients.

• Laser Photocoagulation

Laser therapy, particularly grid laser photocoagulation, has historically been used to manage macular oedema in branch retinal vein occlusion. It involves applying laser burns to leaky areas of the retina to seal off abnormal blood vessels and reduce oedema. Although less commonly used now due to the success of anti-VEGF drugs, it may still benefit patients with limited access to intravitreal therapy or those with persistent oedema. It is generally not recommended for central RVO-related macular oedema due to poorer outcomes in comparison with other modalities.

• Surgical Interventions

Surgical procedures such as vitrectomy may be considered in advanced or complicated RVO cases, especially when accompanied by vitreous haemorrhage or tractional retinal detachment. The surgery involves removing the vitreous gel to allow for better oxygen diffusion and retinal healing. In rare cases, arteriovenous sheathotomy is explored to relieve vein compression at arteriovenous crossing points in branch RVO. While not standard first-line treatments, these interventions may be beneficial in refractory or vision-threatening conditions. Their use is usually reserved for specialised centres with surgical expertise.

Retinal Vein Occlusion:

Burden Analysis

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) imposes a significant burden on patients due to its potential to cause sudden and often irreversible vision loss. This visual impairment can severely disrupt daily functioning, limiting independence, mobility, and the ability to perform routine tasks. Many patients face emotional distress, social withdrawal, and reduced productivity, particularly those in working-age groups. The need for long-term treatment and frequent monitoring also adds financial strain. Overall, RVO substantially lowers quality of life, demanding comprehensive care strategies that address both visual outcomes and the broader psychosocial impact on affected individuals.

Key Epidemiology Trends

Retinal Vein Occlusion is one of the most prevalent retinal vascular disorders globally and a leading cause of visual impairment in older adults. The condition has been studied extensively in recent years, revealing notable trends that shed light on its risk factors, distribution, and long-term outcomes. The following five trends illustrate the evolving epidemiological landscape of this disease:

1. Ageing Populations Driving Increased Prevalence

One of the most significant trends influencing the burden of Retinal Vein Occlusion is the global rise in ageing populations. As the disease is strongly associated with age, particularly individuals over the age of 50, countries with older demographics are experiencing a higher prevalence of both central and branch forms of the condition. Advances in healthcare and increased life expectancy mean more people are living long enough to develop age-related retinal disorders, including Retinal Vein Occlusion. This trend is especially apparent in high-income nations where access to primary care and longer life spans coexist.

2. Cardiovascular Risk Factors Influencing Regional Patterns

Retinal Vein Occlusion shares several risk factors with cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidaemia. Epidemiological studies have shown that regions with a high burden of these systemic conditions report correspondingly higher cases of Retinal Vein Occlusion. This correlation is increasingly recognised in urban populations in both developed and emerging countries, where lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and stress are contributing to vascular health deterioration. Thus, cardiovascular health trends are becoming reliable indicators for projecting the incidence of retinal vascular disorders.

3. Urban-Rural Disparities in Detection and Management

There is a growing divide between urban and rural populations in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes related to Retinal Vein Occlusion. Urban areas often benefit from better access to ophthalmologists, diagnostic tools like optical coherence tomography, and advanced treatment options such as anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections. In contrast, rural populations may face delays in diagnosis, limited awareness of eye health, and inadequate follow-up care. These disparities can lead to worse visual outcomes and a higher rate of undetected cases in under-resourced areas, reinforcing the need for community-based screening and outreach programmes.

4. Gender Variability in Disease Distribution

Emerging research has suggested possible gender-based differences in the occurrence of Retinal Vein Occlusion. Some studies indicate a higher prevalence among males, while others note increased severity or complications among females. These differences may be influenced by biological, hormonal, or behavioural factors, as well as access to healthcare. While not universally consistent, this trend is encouraging further investigation into gender as a variable in both risk profiling and treatment response, which may shape more personalised approaches to disease management in the future.

5. Improved Diagnostic Capabilities Enhancing Case Reporting

Advancements in retinal imaging and diagnostic technologies have significantly improved the accuracy of detecting Retinal Vein Occlusion. Tools such as optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography allow for early identification of macular oedema and subtle vascular changes. These improvements have led to more consistent reporting and classification of cases, especially in early stages when intervention is most effective. As a result, healthcare systems are gaining a clearer picture of disease prevalence and progression, enabling more strategic planning for treatment resources and public health education.

Analysis By Region

The epidemiology of retinal vein occlusion varies across countries and regions due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes towards pain, and access to pain management therapies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Key regions include:

• The United States
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Japan
• India

These regions exhibit distinct epidemiological trends, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within their healthcare systems.

The epidemiological patterns of retinal vein occlusion differ across countries due to varying prevalence of risk factors like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension, largely driven by ageing demographics and inactive lifestyles. In The United States, the estimated prevalence of retinal vein occlusion is around 0.50%. Among individuals with the branch form of the condition, approximately 5% to 15% may experience secondary macular oedema within one year, and nearly half of these cases lead to some degree of vision impairment. These figures highlight the influence of systemic health on retinal conditions and their visual consequences.

Key Questions Answered

• What are the regional variations in the prevalence and incidence of retinal vein occlusion, and what socio-economic or environmental factors contribute to these differences?
• How does the ageing population globally influence the epidemiological burden of retinal vein occlusion?
• What is the gender-based distribution of diagnosed retinal vein occlusion cases, and what biological or lifestyle factors may explain this trend?
• How do comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease impact the epidemiology of retinal vein occlusion?
• What is the current diagnostic rate for retinal vein occlusion across major healthcare markets, and how has this changed over the last decade?
• How does access to ophthalmologic care influence the early detection and treatment outcomes for retinal vein occlusion?
• What is the recurrence rate of retinal vein occlusion in patients who have experienced a previous episode?
• How do different age groups respond to treatment, and what is their representation in the total patient pool?
• What role does urbanisation play in the increasing prevalence of retinal vein occlusion in emerging economies?
• How are advancements in imaging technologies affecting the detection and diagnosis rates of retinal vein occlusion?
• What are the epidemiological differences between branch retinal vein occlusion and central retinal vein occlusion across various regions?
• How do genetic predispositions influence the risk and severity of retinal vein occlusion in different ethnic populations?

Scope of the Report

• The report covers a detailed analysis of signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and classification/types of retinal vein occlusion based on several factors.
• The retinal vein occlusion epidemiology forecast report covers data for the eight major markets (the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and India)
• The report helps to identify the patient population, the unmet needs of retinal vein occlusion are highlighted along with an assessment of the disease's risk and burden.