Diagnosis Gaps Mark Retinopathy Care

A US systematic review found substantial losses across diabetic retinopathy screening, diagnosis awareness, referral, and follow-up.

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Over 70% of patients with photographic evidence of diabetic retinopathy were unaware of their diagnosis, indicating significant gaps in awareness.
2

Annual diabetic retinopathy screening adherence varied widely, ranging from 3% to 69%, with a median adherence of about 47%.
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Only 31% to 63% of patients diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy were linked to ophthalmic care, highlighting ongoing gaps post-diagnosis.
4

Approximately 0.4% of patients with diabetic retinopathy in the US experienced diabetic retinopathy-related blindness, with 2.64% having moderate to severe visual impairment.
5

Barriers to follow-up care included younger age, systemic racism, language barriers, transportation issues, and lack of insurance.

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