Eye screening linked to fall in sight loss in people with diabetes

Conclusion The results indicate that since the introduction of the screening programme for diabetic retinopathy in Wales, the total number and rate of new certifications of sight impairment and severe sight impairment have decreased. This is despite an increase in the number of people diagnosed with diabetes. The study shows a promising trend and highlights the possible benefit of such screening. However, there are some important considerations: Reporting of visual loss currently requires a consultant ophthalmologist to complete a Certificate of Vision Impairment, and this isn't compulsory. Patients may be reluctant to be registered as visually impaired/blind, so true numbers and rates might be underestimated. Screening isn't the only thing that could have led to the decrease in certifications. It may also have been due to increased awareness of diabetes, improved referrals to specialists and better overall diabetes management, rather than the screening. Everyone with diabetes aged 12 or over should be invited to have their eyes screened once a year. You should receive a letter from your local Diabetic Eye Screening Service inviting you to attend an appointment. The letter will include a leaflet about diabetic eye screening. Contact your local screening service or your GP if you haven't received a letter and your appointment is overdue. Links To The Headlines Diabetic sight loss cut by screening, research shows. BBC News, July 26 2017 Links To Science Thomas RL,...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news