On November 14th, global awareness is directed towards Diabetes Day. It was first introduced in 1995 in response to the alarming rise of diabetes around the world.
Facts About Diabetes
Did you know:
- 1 in 2 adults with diabetes is undiagnosed
- Screening for Type 2 diabetes is important for early diagnosis and treatment
- Up to 70% of type 2 diabetic cases an be prevented with healthier lifestyle changes
- In 2015 there were 415 million adults had diabetes
- By 2040 this number will rise to 642 million — that’s 1 in every 10 adults!
Your Eyes and Diabetes
People with diabetes are at an increased risk for severe vision loss and blindness. Diabetic eye disease is comprised of a group of eye conditions including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataract and glaucoma.
4 Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself
- Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year
- Control your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol
- Quit smoking
- Exercise
For more information on how you can protect yourself or support someone with the disease go to diabetes.org.
