Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in Portugal and the Western world between the ages of 20 and 65 and the complication of diabetes that patients fear the most. But the big issue is that in more than 90% of cases this serious loss of vision or even blindness could have been completely avoided if prevention and treatment had been timely.

Diabetes affects blood glucose levels, leading to damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the part of our eye most sensitive to light. These altered vessels leak fluid and various molecules into the retina, damaging it and causing vision loss.

The figures in Portugal and around the world: Diabetic retinopathy is a global problem, affecting millions of people around the world. Its prevalence is intrinsically linked to the increase in cases of diabetes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that there are more than 420 million people with diabetes worldwide. Of these, approximately one third will develop diabetic retinopathy. In Portugal, the figures don't differ much from the global reality. The Portuguese Ophthalmology Society estimates that around 1.5 million Portuguese have diabetes, and around 30% will develop diabetic retinopathy.

Diagnosis and follow-up: The diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy is made through a complete eye examination, which may include dilating the pupils to allow a more detailed view of the retina. It is important for people with diabetes to undergo this examination regularly, as recommended by their doctor. Frequent monitoring is crucial to detect retinopathy in the early stages, when treatment options are most effective and before vision loss occurs.

Prevention: A diabetic should never wait until they have vision loss to go to the eye doctor or get screened. This should be done annually or as advised by your doctor. But the prevention of diabetic retinopathy obviously includes strict control of blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol. And a healthy diet, regular exercise and taking the right medication are essential to minimize the risk of developing this complication.

Existing treatments: If diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed, there are several treatment options, depending on the stage of the disease. These include intravitreal injections of medication, laser photocoagulation and surgery. The choice of the appropriate treatment will be determined by the eye doctor, based on an individual assessment of each patient. It is possible to stop the progression of vision loss in most cases and even recover lost vision in a large percentage of patients.

Prognosis: The prognosis of diabetic retinopathy depends on how early the diagnosis is made and the treatment applied. When detected in the early stages, most patients can avoid significant vision loss. However, in advanced cases, vision can be permanently affected. Therefore, the importance of regular monitoring cannot be underestimated.

Conclusions: Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated in time. Its epidemiology in the world and in Portugal reflects the growing prevalence of diabetes. Early diagnosis, prophylaxis and careful control of diabetes are key to preventing diabetic retinopathy. With the evolution of treatments and awareness of the importance of regular eye care, it is possible to improve the prognosis and guarantee a better quality of life for those living with diabetes.