DHAKA, Sept 30, 2025 (BSS) - A roundtable titled "Bridging Policy, Task Shifting and Innovation: Tackling Diabetic Retinopathy in Bangladesh" was held in the capital to mark World Retina Day 2025, with a call for stronger measures to address the growing threat of diabetic retinopathy (DR).

The National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital (NIOH), in collaboration with Roche Bangladesh, organized the event on September 28 at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel with participation from policymakers, health professionals, international NGOs and private sector representatives.

During the discussion, experts emphasized that diabetic retinopathy, a major complication of diabetes has emerged as one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Bangladesh. 

They noted that the rising prevalence of diabetes has significantly increased the burden of DR, particularly due to low awareness, limited screening programs and gaps in healthcare system preparedness.

Speakers called for greater policy attention, innovative solutions, and task shifting strategies to expand access to early detection and treatment services. 

They also highlighted the need for improved inter-sectoral coordination to integrate DR care within the broader non-communicable disease (NCD) framework.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to reduce the impact of diabetic retinopathy and improve eye health outcomes nationwide.