Automated screening systems for the early detection of diabetic retinopathy: development and incorporation into a national screening programme

Description of impact

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in people of working age. Screening programmes for its early detection are therefore crucial. Following the introduction of screening programmes for diabetic eye disease, research carried out at the University of Aberdeen enabled the resulting images to be analysed by computer rather than manually, a technique that has now been adopted by Scotland's national screening programme. This has achieved a significant impact on patient health, as well as economic impacts for the taxpayer, through cost savings, and for the company that developed the screening software commercially.

Therefore this research has had impact in health and welfare by influencing decisions and care practices by a health service.

Impact status	Open