People who take on advice from their doctor are more likely to attend diabetic retinopathy examinations compared to those who ignore the advice, a new survey has revealed.
In Japan, adults with diabetes are advised to undergo a fundus examination at least once a year to screen for diabetic retinopathy – a medical condition in which damage occurs to the retina due to diabetes.
It is a leading cause of blindness in developed countries and one of the lead causes of sight loss in the world, even though there are many new therapies and improved treatments for helping people live with diabetes.
Prior research has shown that less than 50% of the Japanese population with diabetes attend their annual fundus examinations.
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In this study, the team of academics looked at survey responses of 290 people with diabetes to see if ophthalmology consultation recommendations encouraged them to undergo fundus examinations.
They found that the people who took on board ophthalmology consultation recommendations were 50% more likely to attend their annual fundus examination compared to those who ignored the advice.
The research said: “These findings underscore the importance of improving patient recognition and understanding of ophthalmology consultant recommendations to increase participation in fundus examinations.”
To read the study, click here.
