Diabetics need digital camera tests to avoid losing sight, says
charity
18 May 2009
Some half a million
diabetics in the UK are risking their eyesight by not taking
advanced tests, it has been reported.
According to Diabetes UK, a digital camera is the best
way to capture in-depth images of the eye and pinpoint diabetic
retinopathy, which causes blindness.
The charity reports that, according to figures from the
Department of Health, over a quarter (26 per cent) of UK adults
with diabetes did not take the test last year.
Simon O'Neill, director of care, information and advocacy
services at Diabetes UK, commented: "Diabetes UK is concerned that
half a million people with diabetes are still not having their eyes
checked using a digital camera as part of a local retinal screening
programme."
It has been reported that more than 60 per cent of NHS primary
care trusts are not hitting the target of an 80 per cent screening
rate for diabetic adults.
Meanwhile, Diabetes UK ran a fundraising event on Friday 15 May
entitled Care For A Cuppa Day, which aimed to host 1,000 tea
parties and generate £150,000 to support the charity.
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