Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, this damage can lead to vision loss or even blindness.
Globally, diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of preventable blindness. In the Philippines, this eye condition is becoming increasingly common due to the rising number of diabetes cases. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, over 4 million Filipinos are living with diabetes, and a significant number remain undiagnosed.
As the diabetic population grows, so does the risk of complications like diabetic retinopathy.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of diabetic retinopathy, especially for Filipino patients and families who may be affected by diabetes or are at risk.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus. It develops gradually as prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina.
Vision problems often do not appear until the disease has progressed. This makes early detection essential.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is uncontrolled blood sugar levels over time. Other risk factors include:
- Duration of diabetes (risk increases with time)
- Poor control of blood pressure and cholesterol
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Kidney disease
A recent study from East Avenue Medical Center found that Filipino patients with longer durations of diabetes, anemia, and proteinuria had a significantly higher likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Common Symptoms
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, the following may appear:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Poor night vision
- Impaired color perception
- Vision loss in severe cases
Because the condition can develop without symptoms, regular eye exams are vital for diabetic individuals.
Diagnosis and Screening
Eye doctors use the following tools to detect diabetic retinopathy:
- Dilated Eye Exam – A comprehensive eye exam that allows the doctor to examine the retina.
- Fluorescein Angiography – A dye test to identify blood vessel abnormalities.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Imaging that provides detailed cross-sections of the retina.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently supported a project called REACH-DR, which aims to make diabetic retinopathy screening accessible through telemedicine. This initiative uses artificial intelligence to help screen patients in remote areas.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. In early stages, managing blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure may be sufficient.
For advanced cases:
- Anti-VEGF Injections – Medications injected into the eye to reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
- Laser Photocoagulation – A laser treatment to stop or slow the leakage of blood and fluid.
- Vitrectomy – A surgical procedure to remove blood from the eye and repair retinal damage.
Access to these treatments is available in many private and public hospitals in the Philippines, although affordability and awareness remain challenges.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Preventing diabetic retinopathy begins with proper management of diabetes. Key steps include:
- Maintaining target blood sugar levels
- Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly
Patients should also have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year.
Resources for Diabetic Patients
If you or a loved one is managing diabetes, here are some steps you can take:
- Schedule regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist.
- Contact local health centers for screening availability.
- Seek out support groups or diabetic associations for guidance.
For advanced care and specialized treatment, consult with medical institutions that offer comprehensive diabetic eye care.
Your Eye Health and Vision are Priorities
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious but preventable cause of blindness. With proper awareness, early detection, and effective management, many cases can be slowed or even avoided.
At Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics, we are committed to protecting your vision. Our advanced diagnostic tools, expert ophthalmologists, and patient-first approach ensure you receive the highest level of care. If you have diabetes or are at risk, we strongly encourage you to schedule a comprehensive eye examination.
Your eyes matter. Take the step today to preserve your vision and live a fuller, healthier life.
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Citations and Resources
Shinagawa LASIK & Aesthetics strives to provide accurate and reliable information regarding LASIK procedures and eye health. We utilize primary sources to support our content, including peer-reviewed scientific studies, data from reputable medical organizations, and expert opinions. We also reference established publications and research where appropriate.
Our commitment to evidence-based information ensures that you receive trustworthy and up-to-date details to make informed decisions about your eye care.
Resources Used in This Article
- International Diabetes Federation. “The Philippines – International Diabetes Federation, https://idf.org/our-network/regions-and-members/western-pacific/members/the-philippines/“
- Endocrine Abstracts. “Association of uric acid levels with diabetic retinopathy in filipino patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary government hospital: a cross-sectional analytic study, https://www.endocrine-abstracts.org/ea/0081/ea0081p116?“
- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development. Making screening for Diabetic Retinopathy closer to Filipino patients’ reach, https://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/news_and_updates/making-screening-for-diabetic-retinopathy-closer-to-filipino-patients-reach/“