BAME Vision Committee raises awareness of diabetic retinopathy for World Diabetes Day, 14 November
Did you know people from certain ethnic groups such as African-Caribbean and South East Asian are at greater risk of developing eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy? To raise awareness of this condition, the BAME Vision Committee have produced a multi-lingual document on diabetic retinopathy ahead of World Diabetes Day which falls this year on Saturday 14 November 2020 – Diabetic Retinopathy – BAME Vision Committee.
Diabetic Retinopathy is a common and potentially disabling long-term complication of diabetes. The condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the retina. Diabetic retinopathy typically affects both eyes. If left undiagnosed and untreated it can cause blindness. However, it usually takes several years for the effects of diabetic retinopathy to reach a stage where sight is threatened.
Diabetic retinopathy can also lead to glaucoma, increased pressure within the eye that can further threaten vision. Untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to progressive and irreversible vision loss. But if diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed early, blindness can be prevented. Although many people with diabetes develop impaired vision, fewer than 5% suffer severe vision loss.
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