The Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy and other Eye Diseases in Inuit Peoples of the Northwest Territories: A Teleophthalmology Pilot Project

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To identify the rate of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and other treatable eye disease in Inuit peoples with diabetes who live in remote communities of the NWT by teleophthalmology. Methods: A mobile teleophthalmology unit traveled to 5 different communities in the NWT between July 2001 and June 2003. Modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy (ETDRS) 7 field stereoscopic digital imaging of the retina was performed through a dilated pupil. Images were then sent by secure internet connection to Edmonton, Alberta to be graded by a retinal specialist at the University of Alberta Tele–ophthalmology Reading Centre. Results: One hundred and twenty–eight people (256 eyes) with diabetes were assessed. One hundred and ninety–six eyes (76%) had no DR, 19 eyes (7%) had mild none–proliferative (NP)DR, 20 eyes (8%) had moderate NPDR, 10 eyes (4%) had severe NPDR and 5 eyes (2%) had proliferative DR. Thirteen eyes (5%) had clinically significant macular edema (CSME). Other eye disease identified by tele–ophthalmology included cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, macular degeneration and macular dystrophies. Twenty (8%) were referred for further ocular testing or treatment. Conclusions: The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in Inuit peoples with diabetes living in NWT assessed by tele–ophthalmology was approximately 33%. Eighteen eyes (7%) required treatment for either PDR or CSME. In total, 20 patients (16%) were referred for further evaluation or treatment of their eye disease.  

Keywords: diabetic retinopathy • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: prevalence/incidence • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: systems/equipment/techniques