Diabetic retinopathy screening in persons with mental illness: a literature review

People living with severe mental illness (SMI) have an increased risk of developing diabetes and are less likely to spontaneously report physical health concerns; they may therefore derive greater benefit from attending screening to prevent diabetic retinopathy. We conducted a literature review to consider the uptake of diabetic retinopathy screening (DRS) in people with mental illness. People with a diagnosis of SMI and those with self-reported mental ill-health have reduced attendance at DRS, within the context of poorer compliance with general diabetic care. Anxiety and depression were noted as barriers in attending DRS. People living with SMI require additional support to benefit from preventative health programmes such as DRS. Further research could support a better understanding of barriers to attendance, allowing effective support systems to be developed.