How technology and teamwork prevent blindness from diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is one of those silent complications that can sneak up on people with diabetes if they’re not careful. It affects the eyes and, if left unchecked, can lead to serious vision problems or even blindness. That’s why it’s so important for anyone living with diabetes to know about it, go for regular eye check-ups, and keep their blood sugar in control, because early detection really can save your sight.

Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild or non-existent, making regular screening critical. Over time, untreated changes can cause blurry vision, floaters, or even complete vision loss.

“Managing diabetic retinopathy is not just about eye care, it requires teamwork between patients, eye doctors, and diabetes specialists. The best strategy combines regular eye exams, good glucose control, healthy diet, and blood pressure management,” says Dr Elisa Carreras Bertran, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Adult and Paediatric Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE.

She emphasises that while tight glucose control is key, it should be achieved gradually to avoid sudden changes that might harm the eyes. “With consistent care and new technology, blindness from diabetic retinopathy is now largely preventable.”

Early detection has become much easier thanks to recent developments in imaging and diagnostics.

“Modern tools like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultra-widefield retinal imaging allow doctors to see small changes in the retina much earlier than before. These technologies help detect swelling, bleeding, or new vessel growth before patients even notice symptoms, making early treatment possible and more effective,” Dr Bertran says.

Treatment options have also improved significantly. “New injectable medications that block abnormal blood vessel growth have significantly improved outcomes, reducing vision loss in many patients.

“Laser treatments have also become more precise, targeting only affected areas and sparing healthy tissue. Combined with better control of diabetes and blood pressure, these options mean patients can keep good vision for much longer,” she explains.

Meanwhile, Dr Bertran highlights how AI and tele-ophthalmology are expanding access to care, making it possible for even people in remote areas to get screened early.

“AI-based screening systems can quickly analyse retinal images and identify patients who need specialist review, even in remote or underserved areas. This helps detect disease earlier and reduces the number of people who go untreated.”

With technology making eye care more accessible, managing diabetic retinopathy is now easier than ever. Staying on top of your blood sugar, attending regular eye exams, and acting quickly if any changes in vision appear can make a huge difference. While you can’t always prevent diabetic retinopathy, these steps can help protect your sight and keep you seeing clearly for years to come.