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Friday, April 15, 2016

Diabetic Retinopathy Leading Cause of New-Onset Blindness in U.S. Adults

Although some people may not feel they need eye care, 
most early eye disease has no signs or symptoms 

Photo Credit: US News & Health

Following recommended exam schedules detects and promotes treatment of diabetic eye disease and cuts the occurrence of severe vision loss by half or more, and early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy reduces vision loss by up to 60%. Half of adult patients with diabetes do not have annual eye care, however. 

The most common reasons for skipping eye care given by individuals are that they do not feel they need it or they cannot afford it.

Medicare covers a yearly exam for diabetic neuropathy, and many individuals now have vision coverage through their health insurance. Patients with health insurance are more likely to have recommended eye exams. Lack of insurance increases the probability of eye problems. Uninsured and lowincome individuals are the patients most likely to cite cost as a reason for not seeking care, but even without insurance, dilated eye exams have low upfront costs, reduce patients’ overall costs and increase quality of life.

Read full article at US News & Health 




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