10-Year Change and Projection in Prevalence and Incidence of Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Korea

BACKGROUND: Updating the recent epidemiology of exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is crucial for understanding the epidemiological trend of the disease, preparing healthcare strategies, and providing data for global comparisons. This study aimed to estimate the nationwide trend in prevalence and incidence of exudative AMD in Korea. METHODS: In this nationwide population-based study using the National Health Insurance Service data, patients who have registration code for exudative AMD and aged 40 years or older were extracted from 2013 to 2022. Cumulative prevalence from 2013 onwards, annual prevalence, and incidence was estimated per 10,000 people. We also calculated age-standardized estimates using the World Health Organization population proportions. Linear regression to test time trend was performed. The annual prevalence and incidence were predicted using time series analysis. RESULTS: The crude cumulative prevalence of exudative AMD was 42.7 in 2022, with men having a higher prevalence than women (51.3 vs. 34.6). The annual prevalence rose from 10.7 in 2013 to 22.5 in 2022 (age-standardized, P < 0.001). The incidence consistently increased from 2.8 in 2013 to 4.7 in 2022 (age-standardized, P = 0.001), with higher incidence in men than in women. The prevalence and incidence of exudative AMD were higher in older age groups and showed a faster increase with advancing age. The predicted annual prevalence and incidence of exudative AMD in 2040 are 46.2 and 8.4, respectively. The crude cumulative number of patients was 127,044 in 2022 and is projected to reach 230,899 in 2030 and 374,282 in 2040. CONCLUSION: The prevalence and incidence of exudative AMD in Korea has been increased annually, especially in the elderly group. With the Korean and global population aging, there will be a growing burden from visual impairment and medical expenses associated with exudative AMD.