Dehradun: With the rising prevalence of diabetes across the country, Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) has emerged as a leading cause of preventable vision impairment and blindness. Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and regular eye screening, Dr.BM Vinod Kumar, Consultant – Ophthalmologist, stated that timely detection and appropriate intervention can significantly reduce the risk of permanent vision loss in individuals living with diabetes.
Diabetic Retinopathy is a microvascular complication caused by prolonged uncontrolled blood sugar levels, resulting in progressive damage to the retinal blood vessels. In its early stages, the disease is often asymptomatic, which can delay diagnosis and result in patients presenting at advanced stages. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, distorted vision, or sudden deterioration of vision.
Dr.Vinod noted that patients with long-standing diabetes, poor glycaemic control, hypertension, and other metabolic comorbidities are at increased risk of developing diabetic eye disease. He stressed that annual comprehensive retinal examinations are essential for all diabetic patients, regardless of the presence or absence of visual symptoms.
He further highlighted that recent advancements in ophthalmic diagnostics—such as fundus imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)—along with evolving treatment modalities including laser therapy, intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, and vitreoretinal surgical interventions, have significantly improved clinical outcomes when Diabetic Retinopathy is detected at an early stage.
Adding to this, Dr. Sonal Bangwal, Consultant –Ophthalmologist, Highlighted that performing cataract surgery at an earlier stage in patients with diabetes has played a significant role in achieving better visual outcomes. She explained that early cataract surgery facilitates effective panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) when indicated and enables the identification and adequate treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) prior to surgery.
Dr. Sonal further noted that undertaking cataract surgery before lens opacities obscure retinal visualization allows for accurate macular assessment and early detection of retinal thickening. This approach reduces the risk of postoperative macular edema and can significantly enhance visual outcomes in diabetic patients.
Both specialists underscored the importance of integrated diabetes care, patient education, and close coordination between treating physicians and ophthalmologists to ensure timely referrals and effective management of diabetic eye complications. Early screening, strict glycaemic control, and prompt ophthalmic intervention remain the cornerstones of preventing diabetes-related vision loss.
