The importance of early detection of diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among people of ages 20 to 44 and is the second leading cause of blindness between the ages of 45 to 74. Most patients are unaware of the changes within their eyes. Primary medical providers caring for diabetic patients should receive greater training in fundus examination techniques and the recognition of significant retinopathy. Primary medical providers should be encouraged to perform fundus examinations at 6-month or annual routine examinations of all diabetics, and be made aware of the value of detection and treatment of high risk eyes.