November is American Diabetes Month. As a Doctor of Optometry, this health campaign is extremely important to me, as diabetes and eye health are very closely linked.

Did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among people aged 20-74? The American Optometric Association (AOA) reports that diabetic retinopathy causes 12,000 to 24,000 new cases of blindness each year. This statistic is staggering to me, as it simply does not have to be! People with diabetes can maintain optimal vision and healthy eyes by having comprehensive eye exams and carefully controlling their blood sugars.

One of the main causes of blindness in diabetics is Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), a condition in which elevated blood sugar damages the delicate blood vessels inside the eye, causing them to leak, bleed and become blocked. Over time, the damage to these vessels can cause permanent vision loss. Fortunately, early detection and treatment of DR can prevent or delay blindness in 90% of people with diabetes!

Here are some other important facts:

1. Comprehensive eye exams from Doctors of Optometry are often the key in detecting diabetes. It is important for everyone to make sure they are scheduling exams annually.
2. Annual eye exams and carefully controlling blood sugars can drastically decrease the risk of vision loss and help prevent the onset of diabetic retinopathy in persons with diabetes.
3. People with diabetes are 4% more likely to develop glaucoma and 50% more likely to develop cataracts. Two more major reasons to have that annual eye exam!
4. A primary care physician does not have the training, or often the equipment, to do a comprehensive diabetes eye exam. It is important to visit an eye care professional who has experience working with diabetic patients.

If you or someone you know has diabetes, please share this post with them. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Franklin or Dr. Quesenberry, both trained and experienced in treating patients with diabetes, please call our office at 434-823-4441.