Study populations
Australia, in 2016, had an estimated population of 24.1m with some 15% (3.6m) over the age of 65 years. By 2050, the proportion of older people will increase 36% to 32.9m with a marked demographic shift toward population ageing. Those aged 65 years or older will comprise 22.5% (7.4m) of the total population.
Alongside the ageing population, diabetes prevalence is increasing – with the most recent statistics reporting ~1.1m people living with the condition. Of note is that in 2015 Australia had the highest spending per person with diabetes in the region at $7,652 to $14,498 USD, compared with the Western Pacific average between $693 to $1,246 USD.
Report & Infographic
Time of presentation for screening with an ophthamologist
(Ophthamologists n=48)
- In time for screening
- When visual problems have already occurred
- Too late for effective treatment
Availability of DR patient education materials in health care providers’ offices
(All providers n=109)
- Sufficient information available
- Information not sufficient
- No written information available
- Don’t know
Complications adults with diabetes were most concerned about
(Adults with diabetes n=50)
- Vision loss
- Kidney disease
- Cardiovascular disease/stroke
- Amputation
Frequency of discussions about eye complications with health care providers
(Adults with diabetes n=48)
- Every visit
- Multiple times per year
- Once a year
- When symptoms arise
- Never