Don’t miss your appointment

WE want all of your readers with diabetes across RCT to make sure they’re protecting their sight this Diabetes Awareness Month (November).

Fewer than half of people with diabetes realise that the condition can cause blindness, which is a real worry. This is why we’re supporting the Welsh Government’s new campaign to make sure that people living with diabetes are going to their regular retinopathy screening appointments.

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication that can affect anyone living with the condition. People with diabetes will also be at higher risk of developing other eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts if you have diabetes.

Also, when problems begin there often won’t be any symptoms, which means people might leave treatment too late, when permanent damage has already happened.

In Wales there is a dedicated service that identifies and treats these complications called Diabetic Eye Screening Wales (DESW). Everyone with diabetes should look out for their appointment letter from DESW when it is time for their check-up, where experts will identify any problems and get them treated as soon as possible. The appointments are quick and painless and could help to save your sight.

In the meantime, if you have diabetes and are concerned about your eye health speak to your optician. Your local high street optometrist can give you expert advice on eye problems that need urgent attention and the best way to treat them.

You can also take a look at our website, www. diabetes.org.uk, for more information.