Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern worldwide, particularly type II diabetes mellitus. It is the most widespread endocrine disorder in the world leading to a number of microvasculopathic and neuropathic abnormalities. Diabetic retinopathy, a specific complication of Diabetes mellitus, has emerged as a major cause of visual disability leading to irreversible blindness among adults. Methodology: A prospective, hospital-based observational study was conducted from September 2021 to September 2022, recruiting 395 diabetic patients of age more than 15 years, attending OPD and emergency services at a tertiary care hospital. Results were analyzed on the basis of proper ocular examination and awareness about diabetic retinopathy and it’s complications were evaluated using an interviewer-administered questionnaire designed using the available literature. Results: Data obtained showed that out of 395 participants, 205(51.89%) were aware that DM damages the eye, and only 3% reported that diabetes can lead to blindness. 190(48.10%) had no knowledge of DR and its effect on eye. Regarding the screening for DR, only 176 participants had undertaken previous eye examination, and 219 had never undergone a previous examination for DR screening. Awareness of DR was significantly higher amongst educated patients, amongst Hindus compared to other religions and amongst upper socio-economic status. Higher percentage of individuals having knowledge about DR were about regular eye examination and various treatment options to treat DR compared to unaware group. Main source of information was ophthalmologist (82.7%), an optometrist (48.2%) and non ophthalmologist(39.8%) in aware group. Conclusion: The study was conducted to assess the awareness of DR among known diabetic patients. The majority of these patients were aware of DR as a possible complication of diabetes, but this rate was unsatisfactory. Lack of knowledge about DR is a serious health issue since it hinders efforts to cure and prevent diabetes-related vision loss. While the occurence of Diabetic retinopathy cannot be prevented, with the provision of knowledge to sufferers, sight threatening complications can be minimised

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