Early detection of diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy remains a leading cause of blindness in Australia. Most cases can be prevented by timely laser photocoagulation and this requires early detection of asymptomatic retinopathy. The Australian Diabetes Society recommends regular retinal examinations through dilated pupils, either at diagnosis of diabetes (onset over 30 years), or five years after diagnosis (onset under 30 years). Examination should be repeated at least every two years, or more frequently in the presence of visual symptoms, pregnancy or other risk factors. Diabetic patients and primary care physicians should be better informed about the effectiveness of timely treatment of diabetic retinopathy and the need for regular eye examinations, either by general practitioners or through referral to ophthalmologists.