Diabetes mellitus and vision loss. What can I do to prevent diabetic retinopathy?

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common eye diseases among people with diabetes. This condition is dangerous and can lead to blindness among the working-age populations in developed countries. Prove has shown that in 2002 amongst completely blind people, 5% were accounted with diabetic retinopathy (1). Diabetic retinopthy has a tendency to develop to a more advanced stage; inappropriate control of complications may lead to permanent damage of the eyes. In spite of the significant rise in the understanding of diabetic retinopathy, its tendency does not change. Diabetic retinopathy can be detected approximately in one third of those with diabetes mellitus and the same proportion of patients ahve the risk of blindness related to diabetic retinopathy, which require treatment. Worldwide both diabetes and diabetic retinopathy are frequently being observed; therefore it is important to ensure proper preparation for ophthalmologists. According to the latest data information, given by the World Health Organization, it showed that about 150 million people have diabetes mellitus, with an expectation athat after 10 years, these numbers would double. Increasing numbers of diagnosed cases will not be avoided due to unhealthy lifestyle, population growth and aging. By 2025, most people in development countries will be diagnosed with the disease at 65 and older, while in developing countries it ranges between the 45-65 years age group(2). That rising numbers of almost global disease can affect a patient's vision and cause blindness for the rest of his or her life. [...].