Disparities in dilated eye exams among adults with diabetes: An intersectional approach

Disparities in health care continue to exist despite advancements in medicine and health. It is not uncommon for individuals who are of lower socio-economic status to experience worse health outcomes than those of higher socio-economic status. This seems to be the case despite controlling for various confounders such as income and education. This situation is compounded when individuals have a chronic disease such as diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that claims many individuals, in particular, minorities and those of low socio-economic status. If diabetes is not controlled, it can lead to vision troubles, thus individuals with diabetes should obtain a dilated eye exam to ensure that this does not occur. Intersectionality theory directs this analysis and provides a basis for understanding disparities in dilated eye exams among adults with diabetes. In particular, the theory examines any observed differences in dilated eye exams based on the intersection of race/ethnicity, class, age, and gender.