A study of the awareness of diabetic eye disease among diabetics

Purpose: To assess the awareness of diabetic eye disease amongst patients visiting a tertiary care hospital with Diabetes mellitus. Methods: A cross section of patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus , in a specified time interval ,were interviewed on the basis of a questionnaire regarding their awareness of eye disease due to diabetes and their actual attitude and practice. Results: 423 patients were included in the study. Their responses were analyzed as per the questionnaire, on percentage basis. Conclusion: The study concluded that despite a reasonably good awareness regarding diabetes mellitus and ocular involvement, there was poor attitude and practice of utilization of available resources for screening and treatment of diabetic eye disease.