Free health screening from the Bermuda Diabetes Association caught the signs of diabetes-related complications in people unaware of being at risk, the charity said.

The exercise last November highlighted the need for improved prevention and management through treatment or lifestyle changes.

Lori Rockhead, the executive director of the BDA, said: “These screenings show what’s possible when early detection, education and access to care come together.

“By identifying risks early and supporting those who face barriers to care, we are helping the people of Bermuda to protect their vision and take control of their health.”

The open day on November 12 and 13 came with free eye and blood sugar screening as part of World Diabetes Day.

The tests, conducted in collaboration with the Lahey Hospital & Medical Centre in Massachusetts, had 72 participants ranging in age from 29 to 96, with women accounting for 74 per cent.

The charity deems HbA1c blood sugar testing in particular — tracking average blood glucose levels over the preceding two to three months — crucial for diagnosing and managing diabetes.

The BDA said half of those tested recorded HbA1c levels of 7 per cent or higher, with readings reaching up to 12.5 per cent, considered “between high and very high”.

The test identifies those with pre-diabetes or diabetes, along with cases where existing diabetes was not well controlled.

Additionally, eye screenings assessed diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

Nearly half of participants showed signs of at least one screened condition and 21 per cent required prompt follow-up care with an ophthalmologist.

Two participants were found to have macular oedema — swelling in the retina — and were referred for further assessment.

Early detection of the condition, which can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated, is critical, reinforcing the need for regular eye examinations for those living with diabetes.

The BDA said the screening reached dozens, identifying people who may otherwise have gone undiagnosed or untreated.

BDA team members talked to participants about prevention, self-management and the link between blood sugar control and eye health.

Sixteen of those screened were “potentially at risk” of being unable to afford the recommended follow-up.

To help remove financial barriers, the charity gave support to 11 who qualified for its client assistance programme, offering medication free of charge to people living with diabetes who are uninsured or underinsured.

For more information about the BDA’s education programmes and support services, visit www.diabetes.bm