According to the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) National Diabetes Statistics Report for 2022, cases of diabetes have risen to an estimated 37.3 million across the US. While diabetes impacts people of all social and economic backgrounds, there are disparities across racial and ethnic groups. More specifically, the risk of developing diabetes is 77% greater among African Americans. Limited access to healthcare, higher rates of obesity, and the prevalence of hypertension contribute to this increased risk. 

For those already diagnosed with diabetes, it is essential to pay close attention to eye health. Diabetes can have serious implications for vision, leading to conditions that may result in blindness if left untreated. In this article, we’ll explore how diabetes affects eye health and provide practical tips to help individuals protect their vision.

How diabetes impacts eye health

Did you know that diabetes is the primary cause of blindness in adults ages 20 to 74? The National Institutes of Health states that diabetes mainly affects the eyes when blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. In the short term, this may manifest in blurry vision caused by high glucose, which leads to swelling in the tissues of the eyes. However, over time, more serious eye conditions may develop due to blood vessel damage.

Diabetic eye diseases include diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma – all of which may result in poor vision or even blindness. Although diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among diabetic patients, having diabetes makes you two to five times more likely to develop cataracts. Meanwhile, diabetes doubles the risk of glaucoma. 

Managing your diabetes can help you prevent or delay vision loss, but there are also proactive steps you can take to maintain eye health.

Tips for preventing vision issues from diabetes

Protect your eyes from UV rays

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can exacerbate eye problems for people with diabetes. For instance, prolonged exposure to UV light increases the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. Therefore, wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays is crucial. In addition, Dr. Jessica S. Watson recommends opting for sunglasses with oversized frames to maximize eye coverage and reduce UV absorption, such as the Oakley Holbrook or Ray-Ban Balorama. To further shield your eyes from harmful rays, you can wear a wide-brimmed hat like the UV Protection Wide Brim Hat from Uniqlo. 

Regularly update your prescription glasses

Diabetes can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels that trigger changes in vision. Prescription updates, coupled with regular eye exams, ensure you have the correct lenses to support your vision needs. The good news is that established online retailers have simplified this process. Leading eyewear brand Ray-Ban offers a range of high-quality eyeglasses to suit various needs, from single-vision to progressive and even photochromic lenses. Simply manually enter your prescription, upload a file, or send an email or text to customize glasses with your prescription. Best of all, this retailer accepts most major insurance networks and requires just a few details to identify your eligibility.

Undergo diabetic eye exams

Having a full, dilated eye exam is the best way to check for eye problems from diabetes. These comprehensive eye exams include tests that specifically look for signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Early detection through these exams allows for timely intervention, preventing or slowing the progression of eye diseases. Experts advise that individuals with diabetes have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. During this exam, your eye doctor will dilate your pupils with special eye drops to get a better view of the inside of your eyes. This thorough examination helps in identifying any changes or damage caused by diabetes. 

Protecting your vision is a crucial aspect of managing diabetes, particularly for African Americans who face a higher risk of developing the disease. By understanding the impact of diabetes on eye health and following these practical tips, you can take preventive measures to preserve your vision. 

Article written by Rose Henderson exclusively for Black Men In America.com

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