Early Onset of Diabetic Retinopathy in Young Adults Raises Alarming Concern, Warn Ophthalmologists
Bengaluru, September 26, 2025 – In a stark warning ahead of World Retina Day, ophthalmologists from Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital have expressed deep concern over the rising number of young adults developing diabetic retinopathy within just three to five years of being diagnosed with diabetes. Traditionally, such severe eye complications were expected to manifest only after a decade or more of poorly controlled diabetes.
Experts said this trend reflects the growing prevalence of uncontrolled diabetes in younger age groups, driven by sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, stress, and lack of regular medical check-ups. Diabetic retinopathy, they cautioned, is a serious, vision-threatening complication of diabetes that damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina and, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible blindness.
Speaking at the briefing, doctors emphasized the critical importance of early and regular eye examinations for individuals living with diabetes, regardless of age or stage of the disease. “Even patients who have been recently diagnosed with diabetes should not assume that their eyes are safe. Retinal changes can develop silently, and by the time vision loss is noticed, the damage is often advanced,” one senior ophthalmologist explained.
The specialists further urged diabetic patients to adopt a comprehensive lifestyle management approach to safeguard their eyesight. This includes strict control of blood sugar levels, regular monitoring of blood pressure, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in consistent physical activity. They pointed out that adherence to these preventive measures, combined with medical guidance, can significantly reduce the risk of sight-threatening complications.
Highlighting the role of modern medical advancements, the experts noted that timely interventions such as advanced laser therapies, intravitreal injections, and minimally invasive surgical options are now available and can effectively control disease progression when detected early.
“With diabetes affecting India’s younger population at an alarming rate, diabetic retinopathy is no longer a condition confined to the elderly. Awareness, proactive screening, and early treatment are the keys to preventing avoidable blindness,” the experts concluded.
City Today News 9341997936
City Today News 