RELEASE:December 19, 2002

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In recognition of American Diabetes Month, the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired encourages individuals with diabetes to have an annual dilated eye exam. Diabetes causes a wide range of devastating effects throughout the body. Awareness of diabetes is the first step to preventing unnecessary complications. The eyes, in particular, are most vulnerable. In fact, among Americans of working age, diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness. Diabetes and its complications disproportionately affect minority groups, especially individuals of African and Hispanic decent.

Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma, and Cataracts are the most common eye complications in individuals with diabetes. The longer the person has had diabetes, the greater the risk of developing eye complications. This is especially true for individuals who may be unaware that they have diabetes and have not received treatment to control its effects. In New Jersey, over 600,000 individuals have diabetes and an estimated one third of those individuals are not yet diagnosed.

The good news is that there are ways to lower your risk of eye complications from diabetes: control your blood sugar, watch your weight and watch your blood pressure. In addition to taking care of your body, take special care of your eyes. Get routine dilated eye examinations at least once a year and more often if you are having vision problems.

Local groups, organizations or agencies are invited to join with the NJ Commission for the Blind in the fight against needless loss of vision. A free Diabetic Vision Screening can be arranged for your group by calling 973-648-3550 or 973-648-7504.

Vito J. DeSantis, Acting Executive Director

Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired

New Jersey Department of Human Services