Diabetic retinopathy – the value of early detection

Purpose of Assessment

To review the current scientific foundation concerning the occurrence of diabetic retinopathy and the methods available for early detection and treatment. Results from a survey of the current status of screening and treatment in Sweden are also presented as well as an economic analysis.

Methods

Review process for the publication

Internal review by project group, SBU Board and SBU Expert Group. Additional external review by experts in the field.

Content of Report

An estimated 3% of the Swedish population (about 250,000), have diabetes, 80% of whom are over 50 years old. The results of the questionnaire study suggest that the need for diabetic retinopathy screening is generally well met for diabetics treated with insulin. Currently, the screening program covers only a limited portion of those treated by oral agents or a diet regime. The current screening program in Sweden results in a social economic savings for Type I diabetes and offers a major benefit for many patients by preventing blindness. The cases of prevented blindness are substantially lower for Type II diabetes. Expanding screening activities to include all persons with Type II diabetes would have a social economic cost of about 50,000 SEK per prevented year of blindness.