Level of awareness of diabetic retinopathy among the Saudi population

Background Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. It develops as a complication of diabetes mellitus and often progresses without noticeable symptoms until vision is severely compromised. Early detection through regular screening is crucial to prevent vision loss, as timely intervention can slow disease progression. Enhancing public awareness about DR and the importance of routine ophthalmic examinations is essential for reducing its impact. Objective This study aimed to assess the level of awareness of DR among the Saudi population. Patients and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed across various regions of Saudi Arabia after obtaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. A total of 1000 Saudi participants aged 18 years and above were recruited using a snowball sampling method. Results Among the participants, 65.6% were females, with the largest age group between 18 and 29 years (55.5%). The central region provided the highest response rate (25%). The study revealed a high level of awareness, with 91.6% recognizing that diabetes affects the eyes and 83.5% acknowledging the need for regular screening even without symptoms. Additionally, 93.2% understood that good glycemic control can prevent DR, while 81.6% knew that DR is treatable. Furthermore, 85% were aware that the duration of diabetes influences DR development, and 83% recognized hypertension as a contributing factor. Conclusion The Saudi population demonstrates commendable awareness of DR. Continuous public health initiatives and educational campaigns are necessary to sustain and further enhance awareness, encouraging preventive practices and early detection.