Table 1.

Features of organized or systematic screening that are relevant to DR screening.

Conditions Suitable for Screening	Diabetic Retinopathy
The diseases to be screened for are important and frequent.	✓Diabetics are still increasing. ✓Diabetic retinopathy has a risk of blindness if not treated. ✓The social burden related to DR and vision impairment is high.
2.The disease can be easily diagnosed using non-invasive methods.	✓Diagnosis can be made noninvasively with fundus photographs. ✓Fundus cameras are already widely available and relatively inexpensive. ✓Digital imaging is suitable for remote diagnosis.
3.Prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation methods after diagnosis have been established.	✓Evidence for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy is well established. ✓Nearsightedness can be prevented with appropriately timed treatment. ✓Appropriate and timely treatment can also improve vision.
4.Early detection by screening leads to effective treatment after diagnosis and cost-effective	✓Medical benefits have been shown to reduce blindness. ✓Cost-effectiveness has been confirmed in several countries and regions, including Japan.