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New Delhi, March 13, 2024 (Health News): As the world commemorated World Glaucoma Day on March 12, health experts underscored the alarming prevalence of diabetes-related eye diseases, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures to curb vision loss among the working-age population. Diabetes, recognized as a significant risk factor for glaucoma and other eye conditions, poses a growing threat to visual health worldwide.
Glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss and blindness if left untreated, is particularly rampant among individuals with diabetes. According to Dr. Aishwarya Krishnamurthy, Consultant in Endocrinology & Diabetes at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, uncontrolled diabetes affects various parts of the eye, including the eyelids, cornea, lens, retina, and blood vessels, ultimately increasing the risk of vision impairment.
“Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the working age group,” stated Dr. Surender Kumar, Senior Endocrinologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. He highlighted the detrimental effects of diabetes on the retina’s blood vessels, which can lead to swelling and fluid leakage, ultimately resulting in serious vision problems such as retinal detachment if left untreated.
The alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for action. A recent study published in The Lancet journal revealed that approximately 21 million people in India are visually impaired, with 2.4 million suffering from blindness. As diabetes rates soar in the country, fueled by factors such as sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits, the risk of vision loss continues to escalate.
Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Director of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, highlighted the broad spectrum of eye conditions associated with diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, macular edema, and dry eyes. These conditions, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to decreased vision or even blindness.
Despite the alarming statistics, experts stressed that vision loss is preventable with proper management of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. They emphasized the importance of regular eye examinations for all patients with diabetes, coupled with adherence to a healthy lifestyle encompassing balanced nutrition, physical activity, and smoking cessation.
As the global burden of diabetes-related eye diseases continues to escalate, health experts urge individuals to prioritize proactive eye care and adopt preventive measures to safeguard their vision and overall well-being.
