Prevent Blindness has designated November as Diabetes-related Eye Disease Awareness Month. The initiative is aimed to let eye care professionals know how they can play a vital role in early detection and patient education on managing diabetes-related eye diseases.
THE IMPACT OF DIABETES ON EYE HEALTH
With millions affected by diabetic-related eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. Eye care professionals are essential in detecting these issues early. Eye exams can reveal diabetes-related changes in the eye, helping patients address concerns before they lead to severe vision loss.
According to the National Eye Institute, those with diabetes are up to five times more likely to develop cataracts and to get them at a younger age. Diabetes also nearly doubles the risk of developing open-angle glaucoma.
“Diabetes can have a significant, negative impact on our eye health, as well as our overall health and quality of life,” says Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. “By working closely with healthcare professionals and adhering to medical advice, we can all work together to protect vision from the damaging effects of diabetes.”
RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH PATIENT EDUCATION
Providers can help spread awareness by educating patients on the importance of annual eye exams, especially those at higher risk of diabetes. Discussing how diabetes affects eye health can encourage patients to stay on top of their overall well-being.
GET INVOLVED
Eye care professionals can support the campaign by sharing educational resources from Prevent Blindness, displaying awareness materials in their practices or offering educational talks within their communities. Providers can also use social media to highlight key facts about diabetes and eye health, linking back to Prevent Blindness resources for more information. Click here to find resources and fact sheets in English and Spanish, educational videos and web pages.
