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An estimated 29 million Americans age 20 years or older have either diagnosed diabetes mellitus, undiagnosed diabetes, or impaired fasting blood glucose levels. About one-third are not aware that they have the disease. If the diabetes is poorly controlled, diabetic retinopathy can develop. This is the #1 cause of blindness in the Hispanic population. |
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In early diabetic retinopathy, the blood vessels leak blood and fluids into the retinal tissues. If the leaking becomes extensive enough, vision worsens. This is referred to as Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR). As the condition worsens beyond NPDR, fragile new blood vessels which leak more blood will grow. This is referred to Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR). Fibrous bands of tissue develop along the new vessels and later shrink, pulling on the retina which results in a retinal detachment and possible blindness.
Diabetic retinopathy can be treated with lasers to destroy the new blood vessels and injections into the eye to slow the growth of the blood vessels. Individuals with diabetes are 25 times more likely than the general population to become blind.
For more information see the article in Media - Dr. Steensma's Articles