In 2017, an eye-opening study conducted in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, brought to light the pressing issue of vision problems. What makes this study even more touching is that many of our dedicated PNG eye doctors were directly involved in this crucial research, which was later published in the prestigious British Journal of Ophthalmology. The study, titled “Rapid assessment of avoidable blindness and diabetic retinopathy in people aged 50 years and older in the National Capital District of Papua New Guinea,” delved deep into the prevalence and primary causes of blindness and vision impairment among individuals aged 50 and older in four key regions of PNG.
Key Findings of the Study:
- 50% of individuals aged 50 and older with diabetes in the National Capital District (NCD) of Papua New Guinea suffered from visual impairment, primarily due to diabetic retinopathy and/or maculopathy.
- Over 60% of these individuals were unaware of their diabetic condition prior to the study, highlighting diabetes as a silent cause of blindness in NCD, PNG.
- More than 80% of the study participants with diabetes had never undergone an eye examination, indicating a significant lack of awareness and accessibility to vision screening services for people with diabetes mellitus.
This silent epidemic of diabetes causing blindness in NCD, PNG, left a profound impact.
This lack of awareness and limited access to vision screening services for individuals living with diabetes mellitus was a stark revelation.
At Skyview Medical Centre (Mobile Doctors), we are committed to addressing these issues with utmost care and dedication. Our goal is to ensure that everyone, especially those with diabetes, has access to high-quality eye care services.