Patient awareness about diabetic retinopathy and visual health

The aim of this study is to analyse the scientific literature on broader patient awareness of diabetic retinopathy (DR). A scoping review of the scientific literature in PubMed on patient awareness of DR identified 18 manuscripts exploring DR awareness over the past 20 years. The average patient awareness was 57.6%, indicating that more than half of diabetics are aware of DR and its risks and consequences. Variations were substantial, ranging from 34% to 89%, depending on the type of study, population, educational level, and duration of the disease. Studies on patient awareness of DR are limited. The degree of awareness is close to 50%, with variation across a relatively wide interval. Educational efforts are needed to improve understanding of the long-term consequences of DR, encourage consultation, and promote early treatment. These efforts should be shared among all stakeholders.