Understanding the Value of Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

Regular dilated eye examinations are an effective approach to detecting and treating visionthreatening diabetic retinopathy. 1 They can help prevent blindness, and they are costeffective. 2,3 Guidelines for systematic screening have been developed because patients with retinopathy are often asymptomatic, and photocoagulation treatment is more effective at reducing visual loss when applied at specific, frequently asymptomatic, stages of retinopathy. 4,5 However, despite the recommendations for regular screening and the availability of effective treatment, many patients at risk of visual loss due to severe retinopathy are not receiving dilated eye examinations and needed photocoagulation treatments. 6,7 .