Tanwir Ahmed Khan
Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospitals, India
Title: Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and diabetic retinopathy in rural Bihar, India
Biography
Biography: Tanwir Ahmed Khan
Abstract
Background: There is no recent evidence on the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and diabetic retinopathy from rural Bihar.
Aim: To determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and DR in rural population of Bihar aged >50 years. Materials & Methods: We conducted a population-based study using validated rapid assessment of avoidable blindness (RAAB-6) in 57 clusters in Siwan district, Bihar, India from January to March 2016. The Scottish grading system was used to grade the diabetic retinopathy.
Results: Among examined 3189 individuals (92% response rate) 134 persons reported with known diabetic history and 67 were newly diagnosed with RBS >200 mg/dl. Overall prevalence of known and newly diagnosed diabetes was 6.3% (95% CI, 5.4%-7.2%) persons. Prevalence of any retinopathy, maculopathy and sight threatening DR was 15%, 12.4% and 6%, respectively.
Conclusion: Study shows the lack of awareness and underutilization of eye care services by the diabetic community at present, suggesting a focused community programs to reduce visual impairment caused due to diabetic retinopathy.