The yield of diabetic retinopathy screening in patients with long-standing diabetes.

Dear Editior,

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microvascular ocular complication of diabetes due to prolonged uncontrolled hyperglycemia. The population-based studies in India reported a prevalence of DR were 18% and 10% in urban and rural areas respectively.[12] Nearly 50-70% of DR related visual complications can be prevented by timely screening and intervention.[3] To improve the yield of DR screening, we did a targeted DR screening camp for people diagnosed as diabetes for at least more than 10 years. We planned to reward people who despite a longer duration of diabetes didn‘t have any DR by a certificate and medal, few were asked to share their views on practices they followed to control diabetes [Fig. 1]. The announcement for screening was made to public with the help of social media and by other modes [Fig. 2]. Nearly 84 people participated in the screening. The average age was 66.47 ± 10.77 years of which 66 (68.57%) were males. The mean duration of diabetes was 16.96 ± 9.12 years. Of the people who came for screening, 70 (85.36%) people were identified with normal fundus.

Figure 1

Camp site for diabetic retinopathy screening

Figure 2

Source of information for diabetic retinopathy screening

People with no DR were asked to share about the measures they take in their life. Majority reported following a diabetes diet, medicines on time, followed by regular exercise like walking and yoga as a reason for good glycemic control. Few selective quotes are mentioned below.

“Doing exercise will prevent the early onset of diabetes for the younger age people”.

“I feel the reason for onset of diabetes is life style changes and food habits apart from genetic factors. I maintain my diabetes under control by regular walking and following diet”.

Best means of communication to reach target population seems to be SMS messaging and word of mouth by a known person. A component of reward motivates them to continue their good glycemic control.

Financial support and sponsorship

This study was supported by the Lions Club International Foundation (SFP2050/UND).

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.