Screening for Diabetes in Optometric Practice

Jen Howse

    Research output: ThesisDoctoral Thesis

    Abstract

    Diabetes is an increasing problem worldwide and is placing increasing strain on
    the healthcare system. It often goes undiagnosed for many years until
    complications occur. Identifying undiagnosed disease presents a challenge to all
    healthcare professionals. In the UK, screening has traditionally been the role of
    general practitioners, although other professionals such as pharmacists have
    recently become involved. Optometrists may also be in a good position to carry
    out screening tests themselves. Their role in screening for diabetes has not
    been previously investigated.
    The first part of the thesis takes a qualitative approach to explore optometrists’
    perceptions, attitudes and beliefs about diabetes and screening for the disease.
    It demonstrated that if certain barriers, such as cost and training, can be
    overcome, some optometrists are willing to carry out screening tests. It also
    raises issues regarding their professional roles and their relationship with other
    healthcare providers.
    The second part of the thesis describes the development and implementation of
    a screening scheme using random capillary blood glucose (rCBG) tests. Over
    three-quarters of eligible adults participated in the screening. We found that
    around one third (318) of those had a rCBG level requiring further investigation.
    Half of these people reported attending their GP and receiving further
    investigation. 16 (5%) were subsequently diagnosed with either diabetes or prediabetes. Those who participated in the screening programme found the test
    procedure to be comfortable, convenient and would recommend it to others.
    Analyses of strategies to identify those most at risk who would benefit from
    screening suggest that offering rCBG tests to those who are aged over 40 years
    with either a BMI of 25kg/m2 or more, or a family history of diabetes or both, would be effective for detection purposes.
    This research confirmed the feasibility of testing for diabetes in optometry practices and opens the door for another, PCT-based, study. This novel approach has never been tried before
    Original languageEnglish
    QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
    Awarding Institution
    • Durham University
    Award date31 Dec 2010
    Publisher
    Publication statusPublished - 2010

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