November 14 is World Diabetes Day. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 180 million people worldwide have diabetes, according to 2005 figures. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention.
Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes. It affects the tiny blood vessels of the retina. Diabetic retinopathy affects over 4.4 million Americans age 40 and older. Diabetes also increases the risk of other eye diseases such as cataract and glaucoma. Along with age-related macular degeneration, cataract and glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy contributes to an approximate annual cost to the U.S. of $35.4 billion. Persons diagnosed with diabetes should get a dilated eye exam annually.
For more information on diabetes and your eyes, go to:
http://www.preventblindness.org/diabetes/patcommunity/pat_community.htm
Thursday, November 12, 2009
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