Diabetic Retinopathy - Risks

"All people with diabetes--both type 1 and type 2--are at risk. That's why everyone with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. The longer someone has diabetes, the more likely he or she will get diabetic retinopathy. Some stages of diabetic retinopathy usually requires close monitoring by an Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist. Other stages of diabetic retinopathy would require specialist treatment to help prevent its progression.

During pregnancy, diabetic retinopathy may be a problem for women with diabetes. To protect vision, every pregnant woman with diabetes should have an eye exam as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend additional exams during your pregnancy.

In the U.K, everyone with diabetes are entitled to a FREE NHS eye test once every year

Oh yeah - do remember, diabetics are also at risk from other eye conditions such as cataracts, ocular infection, optic nerve problems etc....hence. more of a reason to have regular eye tests"