Diabetes eye problems could be detected by computers

According to diabetes news, a computer program could detect possible eye problems amongst diabetics before they eventuate. At this stage, many diabetics face an increased risk of blindness, yet many patients are not even given an annual eye exam to detect diabetes complications .
The new computer programs detect possible eye problems and have been trialled amongst almost 17,000 people with diabetes . The programs, EyeCheck and Challenge 2009 are based on new technology and both achieve maximum accuracy.
Michael Abramaoff of the UI Carver College of Medicine reportedly commented: “It is an important question: whether a computer can substitute for a human to detect the initial signs of diabetic eye disease . Our analysis shows that the computerized programs appear to be as accurate and thorough as a highly trained expert in determining if these initial signs of an eye problem are developing in someone with diabetes . Once the initial problems are found, an eye specialist can treat the patient.”