Diabetic eye screening
Why is screening important?
This page explains what diabetic eye screening is and why it is important.
What is diabetic eye screening?
Diabetic eye screening
Diabetic eye screening is for people aged 12 years and over with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
The test is to look for diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition caused when high blood sugar levels damage your eye.
Photographs
A health professional will take photographs of the back of your eyes to find out if you have diabetic retinopathy.
Preventing sight loss
Diabetic eye screening is the best way to prevent sight loss from diabetic retinopathy.
How often should I be screened?
How often you are screened will depend on your last 2 screening results.
Signs of retinopathy
If you have had any signs of retinopathy, you will continue screening every 6 months or every year.
No signs of retinopathy
If you have had no signs of retinopathy, you will usually need a screening test every 2 years.
Eye tests
Eye Tests
Diabetic eye screening only looks for retinopathy. It is important to still go for your regular eye tests with your optician.
If you notice any changes to your eyesight, go to your optician straight away.
