More than 1.8 million people living in South Africa have diabetes. Having diabetes increases the risk for vision loss and blindness caused by diabetic eye diseases. 

Diabetic eye diseases explained:

• Diabetic eye diseases are a set of eye problems that can affect people with diabetes
• There are several kinds of diabetic eye diseases, and all of them can cause vision loss and blindness
• People with diabetes can protect their vision by getting eye exams at least once a year
• Controlling diabetes can help lower the risk of vision loss

The most common diabetic eye disease is diabetic retinopathy, but people with diabetes are also at higher risk for diabetic macular edema (DME), cataract, and glaucoma.

The longer a person has diabetes, the greater their risk of developing diabetic eye disease. But the good news is that early detection and treatment can lower the risk of blindness by 95%.

By managing your diabetes by means of a healthy diet, regular exercise and the right medication for your condition, you can lower the risk of vision loss.

If you or someone close to you suffers from diabetes it’s extremely important to go for regular eye test.

Contact your nearest Optic Edge Optometrist today to schedule your eye test.