DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i04.038

Pages: 1411-1413

India is a diabetic capital of the world having largest numbers of diabetic patient across globe. Considering significant morbidity of DR and often neglected one, we have planned this study to detect the presence of diabetic retinopathy among persons with diabetes visiting the tertiary care centre for any indication. Standard techniques and equipment were used for clinical examination. Grading of the retinopathy and the presence of macular edema were noted. The prevalence of DR in the study population was estimated, and the Chi-square test was used to explore associations with gender, age duration of diabetes, insulin use, and other end-organ disease. Total 550 diabetic subjects were screened over one year period. Incidence of diabetic retinopathy was 20.8% among diabetics. Incidence was more in males, diabetes duration > 10 years, age > 50 years, increased HbA1c, those with history of stroke, coronary artery disease and nephropathy. Vision was not always impaired in our study even in the presence of clinically detectable DR; 22.18% with a visual acuity of 6/18 or better had DR. The study also demonstrated the presence of DR despite vision being near normal strengthens a case for regular comprehensive eye examinations for persons with diabetes. One of the most important aspects in the management of diabetic retinopathy is patient education. Inform patients that they play an integral role in their own eye care. Excellent glucose control is beneficial in any stage of diabetic retinopathy. It delays the onset and slows down the progression of the diabetic complications in the eye.