Diabetic retinopathy integrated programme, India

Objectives

Kanyakumari District in Tamil Nadu maintains relatively high health standards. However, lifestyle changes have led to increased diabetes and other non-communicable diseases, resulting in a higher incidence of diabetes-related eye problems, particularly diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a common and severe complication of untreated diabetes, and early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to reduce the risk of blindness due to diabetes.

This project focuses on the most vulnerable segments of the population, with a particular emphasis on impoverished communities in Kanyakumari District. Individuals below the poverty line will be identified and provided with free treatment.

The project's primary goal is to prevent and manage diabetes-related eye problems. This will be achieved through awareness and screening campaigns and by offering laser treatment to individuals with diabetic retinopathy.

Approach

The J.M. Charitable Trust and Bejan Singh Eye Hospital will spearhead the project's implementation. Additionally, various other organizations, including the Diabetes Club of Nagercoil (DIA Club), Lions Club of Nagercoil Town, Lions Club International, Rotary Club, Orbis International, and Vision 2020, are supporting this initiative.

The project employs a two-fold strategy for preventing and managing diabetic retinopathy:

1. Prevention: Awareness and screening camps will increase understanding and awareness of diabetes-related eye problems. These camps will also identify individuals with diabetes and those suffering from diabetic retinopathy.

2. Management: Individuals identified with diabetic retinopathy will be referred to the hospital for necessary treatment. The severity of retinopathy will be assessed, and suitable treatment, including laser therapy, will be administered.

As part of the project, health professionals will be trained, which includes sensitizing and educating local general practitioners, ophthalmologists, paramedical staff, dieticians, health educators, and counsellors. Furthermore, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns will be conducted to educate the general population.

Results at completion

- 569 Diabetic Awareeness cum screening camps conducted.
- 650 General Eye Screening camps plus Diabetic Retinopathy Screening camps conducted.105,167 patients screened.
- 2,864 people with Diatetic Retinopahty treated.
- 33 ophthalmologists, 50 Para-medical staff, 10 dieticians, 25 health educators, and 60 counsellors trained