Listen
Why are diabetic eye exams important?
Dr. Stephen Spann, Dean of the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine explains.
“Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels of the eye retina and is the most frequent cause of new cases of blindness among adults 20-74 years of age.”
“Early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy can prevent future loss of vision including blindness. Diabetic individuals should receive a dilated eye exam by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist soon after their diagnosis. ”
“Subsequent eye exams should be performed at least every two years if no problems are found, and at least yearly if early retinopathy is detected. If you have diabetes, you can prevent retinopathy by controlling your blood sugar, your blood pressure, and your blood lipids.”
To hear more episodes of Health Matters, click here.
