This handbook is an overview of the diagnosis treatment and long-term management of diabetic
retinopathy within the context of overall long-term diabetes disease management.
Diabetes-related eye damage (diabetic retinopathy) is one of the most common complications of
diabetes affecting approximately 30-40% of people with diabetes. The situation is so severe
that in countries such as the US and UK diabetic retinopathy is currently the leading cause of
blindness in people age 20 to 74 years old. Fortunately there are several existing and
emerging treatments on the horizon and with adequate control of the underlying diabetes this
condition can be successfully managed.
