World Diabetes Day, celebrated on 14 November, is a crucial opportunity to raise awareness of diabetes, a chronic disease that affects millions of people globally. Created by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1991, this date underlines the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and effective control of the disease in order to reduce serious complications.

Diabetes and its Impact on Eye Health

Diabetes is characterised by high blood sugar levels which, when uncontrolled, can damage various organs, including the eyes. Chronic hyperglycaemia affects the small blood vessels that feed the retina, a light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that is essential for vision. This damage can lead to various eye complications, such as:

• Diabetic retinopathy: The most common eye complication in people with diabetes. Retinopathy occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. At first it can be asymptomatic, but without treatment it can cause significant loss of vision or even blindness.
• Diabetic macular oedema: The macula, responsible for sharp central vision, can become inflamed due to fluid escaping from damaged blood vessels. This condition affects the ability to read, drive and perform activities that require precise vision.
• Waterfalls: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts early on. This condition makes the lens of the eye opaque, impairing vision and often requiring surgery to correct.
• Glaucoma: Resulting from an increase in intraocular pressure, glaucoma can damage the optic nerve. Patients with diabetes have a high risk of developing this condition, which can cause irreversible loss of vision if left untreated.

The importance of diabetes control to protect eyesight

Prevention and early detection are key to avoiding diabetes-related complications. Some measures include:

• Glycaemic control: Keeping blood sugar levels within the recommended range is essential for reducing the risk of complications such as diabetic retinopathy.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol: High levels of blood pressure and cholesterol can aggravate eye problems associated with diabetes. Keeping these factors under control is crucial for healthy blood vessels.
• Regular consultations with an ophthalmologist: Annual ophthalmological check-ups are essential to detect changes in the retina, even in the absence of symptoms.
• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding tobacco help to keep diabetes under control, preventing complications.

Conclusion

Diabetes can have a profound impact on vision, but effective control of the disease is the key to preventing complications. World Diabetes Day is a reminder of the importance of preventive practices and regular healthcare.

Protect your eye health and watch out for the signs: with strict diabetes control, you can ensure a better quality of life and preserve your sight.