Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (retina). It can cause blindness if left undiagnosed and untreated.
WHO IS AT RISK DIABETIC RETINOPATHY?
Diabetic retinopathy is a problem linked to diabetes. Anyone with diabetes is at risk for diabetic retinopathy. Risk factors include:
Age
- Both younger and older people with diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Duration of the Disease
- The longer a person has diabetes, the greater the chance of retinopathy.
- Nearly all people with type 1 diabetes and more than 60% of people with type 2 diabetes have retinopathy in the first 20 years of living with the disease.
Blood Sugar Control
- Poor blood sugar control is one of the main causes of diabetic retinopathy.
Smoking
- Smoking can give high risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Alcohol
- Alcohol and diabetes are a dangerous combination for many reasons, including an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy.
