Less than half of diabetics identify with increased risk of eye disease
TARRYTOWN, N.Y. - Less than half of U.S. adults with diabetes recognize their risk for vision loss, according to a survey released Thursday by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. In fact, less than 18% of respondents said they were familiar with diabetic macular edema, a term that refers to swelling of the macula and is a complication of diabetic retinopathy, the most common diabetic eye disease.
The survey found that nearly one third (30%) of respondents reported they do not get an annual comprehensive dilated eye exam, a test that can help to detect DME and diabetic retinopathy. Of those respondents who do not get an annual dilated eye exam, more than half (56%) were not aware that the exam is recommended by the National Eye Institute for people with diabetes or that it could help protect against vision loss associated with the disease.
"Getting an annual comprehensive dilated eye exam is a critical step that may help to prevent future vision loss by identifying issues early," stated Allen Ho, director of Retina Research, Wills Eye Hospital and Professor of Ophthalmology at Thomas Jefferson University. "These survey findings underscore the need for more awareness among the diabetes community about their risk for vision loss and what they can do help protect their vision."
Additional findings from the online survey of 1,074 people living with diabetes include:
When thinking about diabetes complications, those surveyed said eye disease is the No. 2 concern, behind cardiovascular disease;
Despite concerns, however, less than half (44%) of respondents said they were very knowledgeable about eye diseases that could result in vision loss; and
Only one third (35%) of respondents said they were familiar with diabetic retinopathy, specifically.
In an effort to create awareness and dialogue about improved eye care for people living with diabetes, Regeneron launched a new online resource, www.DiabetesSightRisk.com, which offers information about diabetic eye diseases including facts and symptoms, as well as details around comprehensive dilated eye exams.
In addition, the company has teamed up with Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems on a month-long national initiative called the 30/30 Campaign. Through this program, IRIS will hold 30 or more diabetic retinopathy screening events across the United States during Diabetes Awareness Month this November.
These findings are part of a survey conducted by the Market Research Group at Everyday Health on behalf of Regeneron.