Diabetic Retinopathy

Frequently Asked Questions

18. Does controlling blood sugar slow the onset of diabetic retinopathy?

A major study has shown that better control of blood sugar levels slows the onset and progression of retinopathy. The people with diabetes who kept their blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible also had much less kidney and nerve disease. Better control also reduces the need for sight-saving laser surgery. (Answer continues on next page.)