DR. RICHA JAIN

DR. TINKU BALI, DR. HARBANSH LAL

Abstract

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence and barriers of undiagnosed diabetic retinopathy (UDR) in the outpatient diabetics.

METHOD

300 diabetes were enrolled. Fundus photographs were captured and presence, severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and macular edema were graded using ETDRS criteria. An investigator-administered questionnaire and review of the medical records was done.

RESULTS

Out of 300 diabetics, the prevalence of UDR was 10.3% , 61% had lack of knowledge of DR, 21.3% had no visual complaint, 1.67% had transportation issue, 1.67% had health issues and others (3.67%). Out of 54 DR patients, 57.4% were UDR at presentation, 54.8% had lack of knowledge of DR, 32.3% didn’t have visual problem. Only 8.67% patients had routine follow up.

CONCLUSION

Diabetics patients have barriers to care that need to be addressed to make standard of care, ophthalmic examinations and treatment possible in the population in order to decrease the burden of avoidable visual impairment.