Wales to spend half a million pounds on diabetic retinopathy cameras

Patients with diabetes in Wales will benefit from new and improved technology to spot the early signs of diabetic retinopathy.
Retinopathy is one of the most common health complications that results from diabetes. Latest statistics show that out of people with diabetes that are screened for retinopathy, around 30% show signs of having the condition.
Retinopathy causes damage to blood vessels on the retina at the back of the eye which can lead to increased risks of bleeding and leaking of protein, both of which can affect vision. Early detection of retinopathy improves treatment outcomes and therefore reduces the risks of serious consequences such as loss of vision.
The new cameras are superior to the cameras currently in use, which will improve detection of retinopathy. The Welsh government will be investing £560 million in upgrading the new cameras.
Whilst the cost of the cameras is a large expenditure, they will serve for many years to provide better access for people with diabetes in Wales to receive retinopathy screening that could save loss of sight.
Head of the Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Service for Wales, Andrew Crowder stated: “As one of the 15 healthcare essentials for people with diabetes, there is ever-growing evidence that regular attendance for diabetic retinopathy screening reduces the risk of sight loss.”