Diabetic Retinopathy Online: A Powerful Opportunity for Revision

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the quality, accuracy, content, and readability of online diabetic retinopathy (DR) information.Methods: This study reviewed the most accessible information online for content related to DR. The term, “Diabetic Retinopathy” was entered into Google, Bing, and Yahoo search engines. Assessments were performed using the DISCERN instrument, JAMA benchmark criteria, Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM), HONcode, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) 2017 Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines between multiple graders.Results: Twenty-two distinct websites were studied after applying exclusion criteria. The mean DISCERN score calculated was defined as poor by the scale. The mean JAMA score was low at 2 out of 7 possible points. The mean SAM score calculated was defined as adequate by the scale. Less than half of the websites were HONcode certified. Content from the Preferred Practice Pattern was inconsistently expressed throughout websites, with risk factors and management being represented more frequently than screening and diagnostics.Conclusion: The quality of online DR information for patients is overall poor, unreliable, incomprehensible, and inaccurate. Improving these parameters may assist in the overall management of DR as well as other medical diseases. Diabetes educators should not underestimate their key role in being a reliable and effective source of information on DR.