Awareness of diabetic retinopathy among Saudis with diabetes type 2 in Riyadh city

To assess awareness of diabetic retinopathy (DR) for Saudis with diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 in Riyadh City.

A cross-sectional study that used self-administered questionnaires conducted in primary healthcare centers in Riyadh City between October and December 2019.

There were 267 Saudi participants with diabetes mellitus type 2 visiting primary healthcare clinics. (52.4%) were aged 40 years or above at time of diagnosis with diabetes. (73%) had diabetes for at least 5 years. Most of the participants have a good blood glucose control and they do home measurements. In regard to DR, (64.4%) of participants had no subjective or objective indicators of retinopathy, and (70%) had visited ophthalmology clinics. Majority of the participants were advised about DR or referred to an ophthalmologist by their primary physician, with the percentages being (64.8%) and (59.6%), respectively. Regarding other risk factors of DR, (19.5%) had a family history of DR, (23.2%) of participant are smokers and (41.6%) were hypertensives. Majority of the participants were aware about all the aspects of DR, its consequences, and appropriate management except the laser therapy. In terms of area of living and education respondents, who lived in the center of Riyadh City and the secondary level or less educated participants had the lowest level of education.

Awareness of DR is acceptable but should not lead this information to reduced awareness and educational programs. Outreach researchers' efforts should cover other directions instead awareness of DR.