November Is Diabetes Awareness Month
November is National Diabetes Month! Help us spread awareness about this ever-growing disease, and help show support for those whose lives are impacted by it!
Diabetes Contributes To A Number Of Eye Problems
Glaucoma
People with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without the disease.
Cataracts
Although many people without diabetes develop cataracts at some point in their life, those with diabetes are 60% more likely to get cataracts. Cataracts also tend to develop earlier, and progress faster, if you have diabetes.
Retinopathy
Blood vessels flowing to the retina may be impaired and damaged by high levels of blood sugar. Diabetic retinopathy accounts for 12% of all new cases of blindness in the US. It is also the leading cause of blindness for people ages 20 to 64 years.
More Eye Health Information For Those With Diabetes
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Dr. Moore Adds…
It’s been my experience that patients are generally unaware of the potential danger of diabetes as it relates to their eyes. First, we perform a thorough examination and document any diabetic complications. Then we educate the patient on ways to prevent vision loss. Finally, we communicate our findings to the patient’s primary care physician or endocrinologist.
This Month, Help Us Raise Awareness About Diabetes-Related Eye Conditions
Most of us know at least one person who is impacted by this disease. If you have a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker who has diabetes, share this information with them! It’s essential that they have routine eye exams and get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.