Author's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.
Reviewer's details
- Dr Odukanmi Oluronke
- B.SC, MBBS, MPH (Ilorin), Fellow West African College of Surgeon (Ophthalmology).
- Consultant Ophthalmologist, Kwara State Specialist Hospital; Alagbado.
- Date Published: 1741651200
- Date Updated: 1741651200
Diabetic Retinopathy in Sub-Saharan Africa
Introduction
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that affects people with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that helps you see. If untreated, it can lead to vision loss or blindness.
Discussion
Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Uncontrolled Blood Sugar: Prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the eyes.
- Long Duration of Diabetes: The longer a person has diabetes, the greater the risk.
- High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: These can worsen diabetic retinopathy.
- Poor Access to Medical Care: Limited access to diabetes management and regular eye check-ups increases the risk of developing serious complications.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Blurry Vision or difficulty focusing
- Dark Spots or "floating" spots in your vision
- Sudden Vision Loss in one or both eyes
- Difficulty Seeing at Night
- Fading of Colors
It’s important to note that diabetic retinopathy may have no symptoms in the early stages, so regular eye exams are crucial.
Diagnosis and Treatment
An eye doctor can diagnose diabetic retinopathy by examining your eyes. Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is.
- Early Stages: Controlling your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can slow the progression.
- Advanced Stages: Treatments like laser therapy, injections, or surgery may be necessary to prevent further vision loss.
Prevention Tips
- Early diagnosis of diabetes reduces the risk of diabetes retinopathy. The warning symptoms
- of diabetes are increased thirst, increased urination, fatigue and weight loss despite increased appetite.
- Control Blood Sugar: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take medications as prescribed to keep your blood sugar levels within a safe range.
- Regular Eye Exams: Get your eyes checked at least once a year by a healthcare provider, even if you don’t have vision problems. All diabetic patients should have regular eye check-ups.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Keep these under control to reduce the risk of complications.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking worsens diabetic complications, including retinopathy.
Accessing Care in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Diabetes Management: Visit local clinics or diabetes care centers for regular blood sugar testing, medications, and dietary advice.
- Eye Clinics and Programs: Some hospitals and health organizations run outreach programs or mobile eye clinics that offer free or low-cost eye exams and treatments.
- Community Awareness: In some regions, diabetes education programs help raise awareness about diabetic retinopathy and the importance of regular check-ups.
Conclusion
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can cause blindness if not managed. By controlling your diabetes, getting regular eye exams, and seeking early treatment, you can protect your vision and improve your overall health.
References
- Poore S, Foster A, Zondervan M, Blanchet K. Planning and developing services for diabetic retinopathy in Sub-Saharan Africa. International journal of health policy and management. 2014 Dec 16;4(1):19.
- Achigbu EO, Agweye CT, Achigbu KI, Mbatuegwu AI. Diabetic retinopathy in sub-Saharan Africa: a review of magnitude and risk factors. Nigerian Journal of Ophthalmology. 2021 Jan 1;29(1):3-12.
- Bascaran C, Zondervan M, Walker C, Astbury NJ, Foster A. Diabetic retinopathy in Africa. Eye. 2022 May;36(Suppl 1):1-3.
