Keeping it all in focus – the eyes have it
01 April 2010Posted under Latest News
Regular physical activity and healthy eating are recognised lifestyle factors which contribute to good blood glucose control in people with diabetes; important for helping to maintain good vision. Many people are unaware of the serious damage that long term elevated blood glucose levels can cause to their eyes. Diabetes related eye damage is common and if untreated can result in poor vision and blindness. Many people with diabetes do not notice changes in their vision until the condition is very serious. In fact, on occasion optometrists and ophthalmologists are the first to pick up type 2 diabetes in a patient, by seeing changes in the patient’s retina.
These findings need to be confirmed by further tests, which are usually performed by the patient’s General Practitioner. It is important to reduce the risk of diabetes related eye disease by having good blood glucose control, good blood pressure control, and good cholesterol control.
Ninety eight per cent of serious vision loss from diabetes can be prevented with regular eye examinations which can detect any developing problems and provide the best chance for treatment. All people with diabetes should have their eyes examined at least every two years, or more often if problems are noted by the person or their health professional.
Vision impairment can significantly affect people’s everyday lives such as how they use public transport and the physical activity options they might undertake such as walking and cycling. Low vision has been linked to increases in depression in our community. It also has a significant economic impact and reduces the ability for individuals to remain independent.
The Vision Initiative is a coordinated public health program aimed at raising awareness of the importance of eye health and vision care among health and other professional sectors and the general community in Victoria. The Vision Initiative is managed by Vision 2020 Australia and funded by the Victorian Department of Health. It aims to prevent avoidable blindness and reduce the impact of vision impairment for all Victorians through public and professional awareness.
The Save Your Sight – Get Tested message of the Vision Initiative is focused on early intervention with the simple call to action—visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist or speak to your doctor.
The Vision Initiative brings together a wide range of organisations involved in eye health and vision care in Victoria, including Diabetes Australia – Victoria. Vision 2020 Australia is working with Diabetes Australia – Victoria to produce a Diabetes Australia information sheet called Diabetes and Your Eyes which will be available soon.
The Vision Initiative runs professional and public education and awareness programs for pharmacists, practice nurses and now with primary and community health works through collaboration with Primary Care Partnerships.
For more information please contact Robyn Wallace on rwallace@vision2020australia.org.au or 03 9656 2020.