Protecting Your Vision: Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Through the MNO
We all know how important it is that we take care of our eyes and for those living with diabetes, this is especially true.
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Healing and Wellness Program is offering community-based diabetic retinopathy screening to help Métis citizens protect their vision through early detection.
According to Diabetes Canada, Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that can develop when high blood sugar levels affect the small blood vessels in the retina, the thin tissue at the back of your eye. One of the challenges with this condition is that it often develops quietly. Many people don’t notice changes to their vision in the early stages, which is why regular screening is so important.
If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blurred vision, swelling in the eye, or in more serious cases, vision loss. Across Canada, approximately one million people are affected. The good news is that early screening can make a real difference.
Those who opt in to take the test can expect a simple procedure where a portable handheld retinal camera takes digital images of each eye. The process is quick and non-invasive, and results are available right away.
Participants must be 18 years or older. Images are reviewed using artificial intelligence (AI) assistive screening software approved by Health Canada.
This initiative is focused specifically on diabetic retinopathy screening and does not replace regular eye exams with your eye care provider and we encourage you to book an appointment today if you haven’t been in a while.
After your screening, you will receive one of three results:
- Negative Screen – No signs of diabetic retinopathy were detected.
- Positive Screen – Signs were detected. With your consent, your images will be reviewed by an ophthalmologist through Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC), who will follow up to support next steps.
- Ungradable Screen – The images could not be clearly assessed (for example, due to blinking or movement). This does not mean there is a problem, but you may wish to follow up with your regular eye care provider.
Screening is not a diagnostic tool, but it can help identify when further assessment may be needed.
There are four stages of diabetic retinopathy: mild, moderate, severe, and proliferative. In the early stages, changes may not affect your vision in noticeable ways. As the condition progresses, vision loss can happen more quickly. Regular screening and good blood glucose management are key to protecting long-term eye health.
The MNO also offers diabetic support for citizens who would like additional help managing their diabetes.
If you would like to find out when screening may be available in your community or learn more about upcoming health events, contact One MNO to be connected with your Diabetic Support Team: