90%of severe vision loss
is preventable
is preventable
Even if your vision feels perfectly normal, regular eye exams are essential for everyone living with diabetes.
Whether Type 1, Type 2, or gestational — all people living with diabetes need annual eye exams, regardless of how well their condition is controlled.
An eye exam at the time of diabetes diagnosis establishes a baseline and can identify any damage that may have occurred before diagnosis.
Those with high or fluctuating HbA1c levels are at significantly greater risk of developing diabetic eye disease and require more frequent monitoring.
Any change in vision — blurriness, floaters, dark spots, or difficulty reading — warrants an immediate eye examination without waiting for your annual check.
Remember: Even if your vision feels normal, screening is essential. Diabetic eye disease is often asymptomatic in its early, treatable stages.
While many eye complications develop silently, some warning signs do appear. Do not ignore these — seek medical attention promptly.
Vision that changes day to day may indicate fluid changes in the eye due to blood sugar swings.
Small dark shapes drifting across your field of vision can signal bleeding inside the eye.
Poor night vision is an early indicator of retinal damage and should not be dismissed as normal aging.
Any sudden change in or loss of vision is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
Persistent eye pain, redness, or a feeling of pressure may indicate raised intraocular pressure (glaucoma).
Seeing rainbow-coloured halos around lights, especially at night, can be a sign of early cataracts or glaucoma.
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults globally — yet it is largely preventable with regular screening and good diabetes management.
In Ghana, access to eye care remains limited in many communities. Radiance Hope Outreach is committed to bridging this gap through community screening events and awareness campaigns.
Protecting your vision starts with controlling your diabetes and staying consistent with your eye care routine.
Book a comprehensive dilated eye exam every year — or more frequently if your doctor recommends. Don't wait for symptoms to appear.
Keep your HbA1c levels within your target range. Every 1% reduction in HbA1c reduces the risk of eye complications by up to 40%.
High blood pressure and cholesterol accelerate damage to retinal blood vessels. Regular monitoring and medication adherence are essential.
Never skip or adjust your diabetes medications without consulting your doctor. Consistent medication use is key to preventing complications.
A balanced diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight all significantly reduce the risk of eye complications.
Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors. Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts, which progress more quickly in people with diabetes.
Don't wait until you notice a problem. The best time to protect your vision is before damage occurs. Take action today.
Contact your nearest eye clinic or reach out to us to find a screening event near you.
Share this information with family members who have diabetes — you could save someone's sight.
Volunteer with or donate to Radiance Hope Outreach to help expand eye screening access in Ghana.
We are committed to eliminating avoidable blindness caused by diabetes in Ghana through community-led action, education, and accessible screening services.