Two studies conducted by the University of Western Australia show that early detection of diabetic retinopathy, swelling of the retina caused by diabetes mellitus, can significantly reduce its severity.

 

Lead-author of one of the studies, Dr Daniel Ting from the UWA’s School of Population Health, said that early detection and prompt treatment of the disease can prevent 98 per cent of visual impairment caused by the disease.

 

Of the 568 optometrists around Australia who responded to the survey, more than half reported they lacked confidence in detecting macular oedema and only 40 per cent would appropriately refer patients with macular oedema to an eye specialist.

 

"Given macular oedema is a major cause of significant visual impairment, optometrists need to improve their management (confidence to detect and referrals) to ensure prompt laser treatment for patients," the report states.

 

The study found that nearly three-quarters of all GP’s that participated in the survey did not regularly check patients suffering from diabetes for diabetic retinopathy.

 

Although only 21 per cent of GPs were confident in detecting diabetic retinopathy clinical signs, most felt confident and proficient in managing it once changes were detected.

 

"A worrying finding was that only 29 per cent of GPs and 65 per cent of optometrists had read the NHMRC guidelines on diabetic retinopathy.  This highlights the importance of fostering a culture of continuing education and training," the report found

 

"Diabetic retinopathy screening and management by Australian GPs", published in Australian Family Physician and "Diabetic retinopathy management by Australian optometrists", published in Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology.