9-15 July 2023 is Diabetes Awareness Week
DIABETES AND EYE HEALTH
Many Australians lose part or all of their sight as a result of diabetes. This happens because nearly half of all Australians with diabetes aren’t having regular diabetes eye checks.
DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy increases with the length of time you have had diabetes. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels is also a risk factor. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss among working age Australians and all people with diabetes are at risk of vision loss and blindness. However, with timely detection and treatment, 98% of vision loss from diabetes is preventable.
You may not know you have diabetic retinopathy because it shows no symptoms until it is too late. If you have diabetes, it is critical to have comprehensive eye examinations to assess signs of potential problems.
For more information on diabetes, visit www.diabetesaustralia.com.au