OVER 25,000 LOCAL PEOPLE AT RISK OF BLINDNESS AS PCT FAILS TO MEET TARGET

12.00.00am GMT Mon 28th Jan 2008

New figures obtained by local MP, Sandra Gidley, show that Hampshire PCT is failing to screen nearly half of all local diabetics for diabetic retinopathy*.

All 44,625 people with diabetes in Hampshire should have been invited to attend a free retinal screening eye test by the end of December last year, and by the end of March this year, 80% of local diabetics should have received their free scan. However, only 58.2% of local diabetics have so far been offered the screening, with only 41% having received it.

Sandra, who is also the Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Minister, said today:

"These figures are seriously worrying. Diabetic retinopathy affects up to 80% of all diabetics who have had diabetes for 15 years or more, and in many cases leads to blindness. Research shows though that at least 90% of new cases can be reduced if there is proper and vigilant treatment and monitoring of the eyes.

"Hampshire PCT needs to take responsibility for this shocking neglect of local diabetics. Retinal screening must become a priority.

"The PCT is risking thousands of people's sight. Prevention is as important as cure in any medical condition. It is also much cheaper.

"I urge the PCT to invite the remaining diabetics in Hampshire for screening immediately, and hope to see greatly improved figures in March."

ENDS