[Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in a rural area of Argentina].

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the major problems public health is facing in the 21st century. The worldwide prevalence is increasing; however, little is known about the frequency of this disease in Argentina. Tele-ophthalmology programs have helped to face and to better understand this disease, mainly in rural areas. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in the province of La Pampa. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out, evaluating the characteristics of the population assisted by a tele-ophthalmology program in a rural area of the province. The images, taken with a non-mydriatic retinal camera, the intraocular pressure and general characteristics of the population were evaluated. A disease prevalence of 21.5% was estimated and 14.1% of them had a vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy. In addition, it was observed that 5.0% had glaucoma, 63.4% hypertension and 42.6% dyslipidemia. These findings are similar to those reported in other countries around the world. These data are fundamental to understand the details of the epidemiological situation in this region and to be able to develop health strategies to deal with this disease.