This page provides information for people aged 12 and over with diabetes, their families and carers, and health and social care professionals.

Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye. This is known as diabetic retinopathy. It its early stages, retinopathy may not cause any symptoms, but regular screening can detect changes early and help prevent sight loss in the majority of people with diabetes.

The aim of screening is to reduce the possible complications of diabetic retinopathy, which can cause sight loss and blindness. It is among the most common causes of blindness in people of working age.

You will usually be invited for diabetic eye screening if you:

• are aged 12 years or over
• have a diagnosis of diabetes
• are registered with a GP in Northern Ireland

Primary care practices have registers of patients with diabetes and this information is used to identify the people who need to be invited for screening. People eligible for screening will be invited initially once a year.

At the screening appointment:

• eye drops may be used to widen (dilate) your pupils 15 minutes before the test; if this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at the appointment.
• you will have two or more photographs taken of each eye using a special camera

For further information please see the information leaflets.

The Public Health Agency works with HSC partners across Northern Ireland to:

• deliver a quality-assured diabetic eye screening programme
• provide information and resources to support informed choice
• promote early detection to help reduce avoidable sight loss
• support healthcare professionals in delivering the programme