Survey on diabetes and eye health during COVID-19 launched

People with diabetes are being urged to fill in a survey on diabetic eye screening during the pandemic. 

Swansea University has launched the survey in order to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s experience with diabetes eye screening.

The results will highlight how the pandemic has impacted the eyesight and quality of life of people with diabetes living in Wales.

Screening for diabetic eye disease was stopped in Wales during March 2020 because of COVID-19 and re-started during September 2020.

Due to the need for social distancing and limited clinic venues, re-screening appointments were prioritised according to the risk of sight loss.

Currently in the UK, screening for diabetic eye disease is usually performed once a year. However, a small number of people may need to be screened more often because they are considered to be at higher risk of sight loss.

Those considered to be at a lower risk will either continue to be screened annually or only need to be screened every two years.

Healthcare professionals are now being encouraged to share the survey link with individuals living with diabetes.

To access the survey, click here.