Did you know? Diabetes increases risk of blindness, serious eye diseases

Diabetics are at higher risk of developing serious, sight-stealing eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts. The chronic disease that affects how the human body uses glucose for energy continues to be a serious health challenge in Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiian Eye Center is raising awareness while urging prevention during Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month.

About 10.3% to 11.7% of adults — or 134,100 residents — are diagnosed with diabetes. Experts estimate another 39,000 people are living undiagnosed with diabetes, and more than 1/3 of them have prediabetes.

Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders and Filipinos, among other communities, are at higher risk for diabetes and its complications. Yet, national studies show many people remain unaware of the connection between diabetes and vision loss, leaving their eyesight unprotected.

“Losing vision to diabetes is not an inevitable part of aging,” said board-certified ophthalmologist and Hawaiian Eye Center Medical Director Dr. Steven Rhee in a release from the eye center. “By getting regular dilated eye exams, managing blood sugar and working closely with your doctors, you can help preserve your sight and quality of life.”

Early detection is key.

Diabetic eye disease often has no early warning signs, but vision loss can be prevented if problems are caught and treated early. Older adults with diabetes — or prediabetes — should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year.

Hawaiian Eye Center doctors and support staff are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care.

Visit the Hawaiian Eye Center website for additional information about eye health and diabetes.