Study populations
Canada, in 2016, had an estimated population of 36.1m with 16.1% (5.7m) aged 65 years and over. By 2050, this subpopulation is expected to almost double to 26.5% of the population (11.4m) while those 0–14 years of age will only make up about 15% of the population.
Alongside the ageing population, the prevalence of people with diabetes appears to be increasing – with the most recent statistics reporting 2.5m people living with diabetes and an estimated 705,500 undiagnosed cases. Of note, Canada is ranked 7th highest in the world for diabetes–related health expenditure at $17bn USD and will remain in the top 10 countries with an estimated cost of $22bn USD by 2040.
Report & Infographic
Time of presentation for screening with an ophthamologist
(Ophthamologists n=16)
- 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=93)
- 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=49)
- Every visit
- Multiple times per year
- Once a year
- When symptoms arise
- Never