The diabetes rate here in Central Florida is rising. Not only are more people living with this disease, recent studies show a growing number of young adults are being diagnosed.
Those with Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing vision threatening diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms include, seeing floaters or spots, blurred vision, having an empty or a dark spot in the center of your vision, or difficulty seeing well at night.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the number of Americans age 40 and over with diabetic retinopathy will triple by 2050.
A recent research by the CDC, labeled diabetic retinopathy the leading cause of blindness among adults in the United States between the ages of 20 and 74
The Journal of Diabetes and its Complications published a study in their May 2017 issue, identifying two biomarkers “monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) and cathepsin-D, as telltale signs in young patients with Type 2 diabetes that they are at risk of developing DR. Both were found at elevated levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes,” wrote the American Optometric Association.
“As both MCP-1 and cathepsin-D are molecular signatures of cellular senescence, we suggest that these biomarkers might be useful to predict the development of retinopathy in T2DM-Y patients,” the study’s authors wrote.
This stresses the importance of getting regular comprehensive eye exam, especially if you have Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Masihdas, a co-chair of the AOA Evidence-Based Optometry Committee said, “It potentially provides an opportunity for doctors of optometry to be proactive.We have a great opportunity to have an impact on patients with diabetes.”
Diabetic retinopathy isn’t the only vision problems those with diabetes are at risk for developing. They are also at a higher risk for cataracts and glaucoma. Early detection and timely treatment are the best way to prevent vision loss.
Diabetes can have devastating effects on your vision
Those with diabetes are encouraged to protect their eyes with preventative measures, making an appointment with Lake Nona Eye Care for a comprehensive exam.