New AI Tools Bring Hope in the Fight Against Diabetes-Related Vision Loss
Diabetes remains one of the most pressing global health challenges, and in Saudi Arabia, diabetic retinopathy continues to be a leading cause of visual impairment. As cases rise, the need for early detection, community education, and advanced screening solutions becomes increasingly vital.
Expert Insights
Dr. Adel Alakeely — Retina Surgeon and Medical Director at Magrabi Health in Riyadh — stated to Riyadh Daily that uncontrolled metabolic factors remain the primary drivers of diabetic retinopathy, emphasizing the urgency of consistent screening and stronger patient education across the Kingdom.
He explained that the most influential contributors include uncontrolled blood glucose, hypertension, and elevated lipid levels, all of which directly damage the retinal microvasculature and accelerate disease progression.
Dr. Alakeely added that long-standing diabetes, kidney complications, smoking, obesity, and even pregnancy further increase susceptibility. In Saudi Arabia, where diabetes and comorbid conditions are prevalent, delayed screening and potential genetic predisposition make early and repeated retinal evaluation especially critical.
Awareness Gap
Despite the severity of the disease, Dr. Alakeely notes that community awareness remains limited. Many patients, young and old, continue to present with advanced stages of retinopathy despite knowing they are diabetic.
Widespread misconceptions — such as linking vision changes only to temporary glucose fluctuations — cause patients to underestimate the silent and cumulative damage occurring in the retina. He stresses that waiting for symptoms is already too late, and that optical-shop checks are not substitutes for comprehensive retinal examinations by specialists.
AI-Driven Screening
Advanced technologies, particularly AI-assisted retinal screening, are transforming early detection efforts.
According to Dr. Alakeely, these tools expand access to screening, enable early referrals, and help bridge the gap between the Kingdom’s large diabetic population and the limited number of ophthalmologists.
By reaching patients within their own communities and beyond traditional clinical settings, AI-enabled systems can identify at-risk individuals sooner and support timely intervention before vision loss becomes irreversible.
Dr. Adel Alakeely — Retina Surgeon and Medical Director at Magrabi Health in Riyadh
Patient Challenges
Several challenges continue to hinder regular eye check-ups among diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia. Many are in their working years and struggle to find suitable appointment times, while others face broader issues of non-adherence related to lifestyle habits.
Dr. Alakeely explains that improving behaviors — including healthier eating, regular physical activity, and consistent monitoring — supports better metabolic control and more reliable follow-up in eye care. Expanding access through digital educational tools, community-based screening options, and patient-friendly platforms further encourages participation.
Health Capsule Initiative
A notable initiative currently in development is the “Health Capsule,” designed to provide basic health assessments such as blood pressure, temperature, and weight, alongside retinal imaging. Dr. Alakeely notes that this model aims to reach individuals who seldom access specialty clinics, reinforcing the connection between eye health and general metabolic well-being.
Continued Efforts
Magrabi Health continues to play a leading role in raising awareness and advancing diabetic eye care through a comprehensive strategy that combines technology, research, medical education, and community engagement.
The organization integrates high-accuracy AI models within its screening pathways to ensure early detection and expand access, especially in workplaces and communities where routine screening gaps are most evident. It also participates in research initiatives aimed at improving diagnostic technologies and refining AI applications in retinal disease detection.
Alongside these efforts, Magrabi Health remains committed to clinician education and collaboration with patient-advocacy groups to promote timely examinations and strengthen public understanding. Through these initiatives, the organization continues to reinforce its mission of safeguarding vision and enhancing preventive eye care across the Kingdom.
