Lucknow: A pattern-scanning retinal laser system and an Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) facility were inaugurated at Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS) on Saturday, enabling faster diagnosis and treatment for patients with diabetic retinopathy.Institute director Prof C M Singh said a 2025 study conducted in parts of Lakhimpur Kheri and Shahjahanpur found diabetic retinopathy in 22.8% of people with diabetes, while 5.8% had its sight-threatening form. He said the findings did not represent statewide prevalence but provided an indication of the disease burden.Diabetic retinopathy, caused by damage to retinal blood vessels, can lead to blurred vision, floaters, poor night vision and irreversible blindness if left untreated.Chief medical superintendent Prof Vikram Singh stressed the need for regular retinal screening, saying the disease often remains symptomless in its early stages.The department also organised a conference-cum-workshop on diabetic retinopathy, chaired by Prof Luxmi Singh, where ophthalmologists from across Uttar Pradesh discussed advances in retinal imaging and laser therapy.
