November 7, 2021
It’s easy to take your eyesight for granted.
Diabetes is the leading cause of vision loss in people 18–64 years old. And there are no obvious signs or symptoms. But the great news is an annual routine eye exam could prevent 95% of vision loss caused by diabetes.
Focus on Diabetes™ is a multi-year initiative that brings together the American Diabetes Association and Visionary Partners from leading organizations in vision care to increase awareness about diabetes and eye health.
Get Smart About Eye Health
Vision loss is preventable with early detection, timely treatment and appropriate follow-up care.
Step 1
Know Your Risk for Diabetes
Many people have prediabetes or diabetes for years without knowing it because early symptoms can be so easy to miss. That’s why an annual comprehensive eye exam is critical for prevention and early detection of diabetes-related eye complications.
Step 2
Know the Warning Signs of Diabetic Eye Disease
Some diabetic eye diseases have no signs or symptoms until they are too obvious to ignore, which might present as:
Blurred vision
Dark spots or “holes”
Flashes of light
Seeing an increased amount of floaters
Poor night vision
Step 3
Take Control of Your Eye Health
Routine eye exams can help identify problems that when treated can prevent or delay vision loss due to diabetic eye complications. Unfortunately, many people with diabetes don’t get their eyes examined regularly. Find an eye care professional.