Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Diabetes
Diabetes: don’t forget the eyes
Abstract
Most people with diabetes eventually get some retinopathy. Early detection through regular dilated-pupil ophthalmoscopy or colour fundus photography allows timely laser treatment, which can prevent severe visual loss in over 90% of those at risk. Despite this outstanding medical benefit, only half our diabetic population are enrolled in a regular, effective screening program.
Key Points
- Almost all people with diabetes eventually develop some evidence of diabetic retinopathy.
- Regular screening is essential because diabetic retinopathy is common and has an effective treatment with laser photocoagulation.
- Make sure each of your diabetic patients has two normal eyes, by formal screening at the time of diagnosis and every one to two years thereafter.
- Tight control of blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels over many years can greatly decrease the risk of eye problems or their progression to visual loss.
Purchase the PDF version of this article
Already a subscriber? Login here.