Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, November 8, 1994 TAG: 9411080087
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-7 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Thousands of Virginians will lose their sight from diabetic eye disease this year. A simple eye examination could reduce that number by half, says Prevent Blindness Virginia.
Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye disorders that afflicts people with diabetes. These diseases are: diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina weaken, break down or become blocked; cataract, the clouding of the eye's natural lens; and glaucoma, which develops when a fluid build-up within the eye damages the optic nerve.
According to Lindley T. Smith, Prevent Blindess Virginia medical advisory chairman, "Diabetic eye disease offers few symptoms during the early stages. By the time people notice changes in their eyesight, a significant portion of vision may have already been lost permanently."
Prevent Blindness Virginia is urging people with diabetes to visit their eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilating the pupil.
For more information, call (804) 355-0773.
by CNB