Preventing diabetic blindness : a priority for South Africa : forum - opinion

The prevalence of diabetes in South Africa is increasing rapidly, and diabetes is a significant cause of blindness. Diabetic complications can induce a cycle of poverty for affected families. Early detection of retinopathy and appropriate management can prevent blindness. Screening for retinopathy u...

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Published inSouth African medical journal Vol. 104; no. 10; pp. 661 - 662
Main Authors Cook, C., Levitt, N., Hofman, K.J.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Health and Medical Publishing Group (HMPG) 01.10.2014
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Summary:The prevalence of diabetes in South Africa is increasing rapidly, and diabetes is a significant cause of blindness. Diabetic complications can induce a cycle of poverty for affected families. Early detection of retinopathy and appropriate management can prevent blindness. Screening for retinopathy using a mobile retinal camera is highly cost-effective, with costs of screening and follow-up treatment being less than the expense of one year of a disability grant. Such a programme is a prime example of a 'best buy' that should be part of the national diabetes care package.
ISSN:0256-9574
2078-5135
DOI:10.7196/SAMJ.8580