World Diabetes Day 2026: The one health check people with diabetes should not overlook

Diabetes management involves monitoring blood sugar, medication, diet, and exercise. However, eye health is often overlooked. World Diabetes Day emphasizes regular eye exams for diabetes patients. High blood sugar can damage retinal blood vessels, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition may not cause noticeable vision changes early on, so people can function normally while their eyes deteriorate.

Diabetic macular oedema, another complication, occurs when fluid builds up in the retina's central part, affecting detailed vision needed for activities like reading or driving. Diabetes also raises the risk of cataracts and certain glaucoma types. Early detection of these complications is crucial as they can lead to permanent vision loss.

Indian guidelines recommend comprehensive eye exams within five years of Type 1 diabetes diagnosis and annually for Type 2 diabetes. People with existing diabetic retinopathy may need more frequent checks. Eye specialists examine the retina for damage, often using retinal photography or OCT scans. While not all diabetic eye diseases can be prevented, maintaining controlled blood sugar and regular eye exams can reduce serious complication risks.

Warning signs include blurred vision, dark spots, floating shapes, and distorted images. These symptoms warrant urgent medical attention. Treatment depends on the condition's severity, ranging from regular monitoring to injections, laser therapy, or even surgery in extreme cases. Early detection allows for better disease management before severe vision loss occurs.