Diabetes can cause blindness.
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the number one cause of blindness among working-age adults, but with early
detection and treatment, more than 90% of diabetes-related vision loss can be avoided.
Many people with diabetes do not realize they are losing their vision because symptoms may not be easily
noticeable. Screening for DR can catch the problem while it is still treatable.
All patients with diabetes should have their vision checked along with a dilated eye exam for retinopathy, which
may save your sight. Additionally, good control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as
quitting smoking, can also make a positive difference in the risk for developing or even worsening DR.
Do not wait; ask your healthcare team about getting screened today!
For more information on DR and ways to maintain vision in diabetes, please check out these resources:
Animations, Mobile Apps & More on DR
https://patient-dr.vision-relief.com
Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC). How to promote eye health for people with diabetes. 2022.
https:// www.cdc.gov/diabetes/professional-info/health-care-pro/diabetes-eye-health.html.
CDC. Diabetes and vision loss. 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/diabetes-vision-loss.html.