### Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial for Diabetics Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that affects people with diabetes and is a leading cause of blindness in adults in the United States. Despite its severity, nearly 40% of people with diabetes do not get annual eye exams. These exams are essential because they can catch diabetic retinopathy in its early stages when it is more treatable. Diabetes affects small blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. When these blood vessels are damaged, they can leak blood and plasma onto the retina, causing swelling and blurred vision. In severe cases, new but fragile blood vessels may form, which can burst and lead to blindness. Early stages of diabetic retinopathy often have no symptoms, making annual eye exams crucial. Symptoms like floaters or blurry vision usually appear when the condition has already progressed. If detected early, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure can prevent vision loss. Advanced cases may require treatments like anti-VEGF injections, laser surgery, or vitrectomy. People with diabetes should have an annual eye exam, even if they have 20/20 vision. Pregnant women with diabetes need an eye exam every trimester. Interestingly, even when diabetes is well-controlled, eye exams are necessary as sudden changes can worsen eye conditions. The good news is that with regular eye exams and timely treatment, most people with diabetes can maintain good vision for many years. Both doctors and patients must work together to achieve this.