New artificial intelligence-driven technology has been used to screen patients for diabetic retinopathy in just seconds at a GP clinic, without the need for an ophthalmologist.
The world-first technique, developed through the CSIRO, will make it easier to detect the cause of blindness in the more than 1 million Australians living with diabetes.
CSIRO Professor Yogi Kanagasingam said it was not possible for eye specialists to keep up with the growing numbers of diabetics.
"There are about 1.7 million diabetics in Australia and about half a million don't know they are diabetic. All together there are around 450 million people [worldwide], so it is huge," he said.
"There aren't enough eye doctors to screen 450 million people, so we need some alternative methods to find those that need treatment and surgery."
Professor Kanagasingam said a diagnosis was generated quickly using the new technology.
"Somebody takes photos of the retina and then the photos will be analysed by the artificial intelligence system, and then within 30 seconds it will give a reply back to whether or not the patient has to be referred," Professor Kanagasingam said.
"It will also tell what kind of disease grading, [whether] mild, moderate or severe."
Condition affects one-third of diabetic patients
Diabetic retinopathy affects one in three people living with diabetes, and it can lead to blindness.
"Usually if a diabetic is at risk of the condition, their GP will refer them to a specialist to have their eyes tested," Professor Kanagasingam said.
"Patients wait six weeks to three months to see an ophthalmologist. Most of the patients will not have the disease, so it is an unnecessary waiting."
Adam Ireland took part in a trial of the technology and said it was very convenient for patients.
"There are so many things that can happen to a human being when you've got diabetes, but a great deal of people who have got it don't realise how dangerous it is," he said.
"I found out through my wife, I had the test and it was fine, it was easy."
Professor Kanagasingam said the new screening technology streamlined health and preventative services.
"We are bringing it to the primary service level ... only thing they [GPs] don't do is eye screening ... but now you are getting the care on the spot."
The technology will be rolled out to 20 clinics in Western Australia in the next few months before expanding across the country.