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Awareness of diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital in rural South India

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Original Article

Author Details : Hari Ramakrishnan, Suseela B. Nair

Volume : 3, Issue : 2, Year : 2017

Article Page : 125-127

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Abstract

The present study is undertaken to assess the awareness of diabetic patients regarding the effects of diabetes on the eye, particularly diabetic retinopathy, among diabetic patients. The study was conducted among diabetic patients attending the Medical Outpatient Department. 100 patients were given a questionnaire which contained a sequence of questions related to their hospital visits, financial status, educational status, profession and current knowledge on diabetic retinopathy. 85 patients responded that they underwent ocular examination only if they had specific ocular complaints. 66 patients were aware that diabetes can affect eyes. 60 patients were aware that diabetes can be a cause for blindness. Only 56 patients knew that the risk of retinopathy increased with the duration of diabetes. 53 patients were unaware that retinopathy in its advanced stages was irreversible and that the resulting blindness is permanent. There is lack of awareness regarding diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients. The health education programs organized to spread awareness regarding the complications of diabetes in the eye and need for periodic eye examination have not been optimal and more effective awareness programs are required.

Keywords: Awareness, Diabetes mellitus, Diabetic retinopathy, Rural, South India.

How to cite : Ramakrishnan H, Nair S B, Awareness of diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital in rural South India. Indian J Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2017;3(2):125-127

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