Diabetic retinopathy awareness and associated factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes

Objective: Diabetic retinopathy (DRP) is a chronic complication that is part of the serious health problems caused by diabetes and is associated with complications such as angiopathy and neuropathy. In this study, we aimed to assess the level of awareness of DRP among patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) at family health centers (FHCs) in Afyonkarahisar province, investigate the prevalence of DRP and its related factors, and highlight the importance of increasing awareness and early diagnosis of DRP. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study included patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) registered at nine family health centers (FHCs) in Afyonkarahisar province, representing low, middle, and high socioeconomic levels, between February and October 2024. After obtaining verbal and written consent from participants who met the inclusion criteria, a data collection form containing questions prepared in line with the literature, which inquired about sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, clinical and laboratory data, and DRP awareness, was administered by the researcher using face-to-face interviews. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure readings were also taken. Eye examinations were conducted by an ophthalmologist at a secondary healthcare facility. Data analysis was performed using IBM® SPSS® 26 software, and in addition to descriptive analyses, t-tests, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Shapiro-Wilk test were applied. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 244 patients with type 2 DM were included in our study, but the study continued with 214 patients who accepted the eye examination, and the study was completed. The prevalence of DRP was found to be 29%. DRP prevalence was statistically significantly higher in patients with higher average HbA1c, poor glycemic control, and longer duration of diabetes (p<0.05). A statistically significant difference was found between treatment types, average diastolic blood pressure, hip circumference, waist circumference, and DRP prevalence (p<0.05). It was determined that patients had limited knowledge and awareness regarding the potential impact of diabetes on their vision. Conclusion: Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that does not show symptoms in the early stages and can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. In our study, the prevalence of DRP was found to be 29%, and patients' knowledge and awareness of DRP were found to be low. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness of diabetic retinopathy among healthcare professionals and the general public, emphasizing the importance of family physicians taking a more active role in this regard. Key words: Awareness, Diabetic Retinopathy, Diabetes Complications, Family Practice, Glycemic Control, Preventive Medicine