International Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month
Every November, the focus turns to diabetes and its effects on health. One area that deserves special attention is our eyesight. Diabetes is a leading cause of preventable blindness — but with the right care, routine checks and early action, many vision-threatening problems can be picked up long before they cause trouble.
As eye care providers who care deeply about community eye health here in Melbourne’s west, we see the difference early detection makes every day. If you or someone close to you lives with diabetes, this month is the perfect reminder to place eye health at the top of the to-do list.
Why Does Diabetic Eye Disease Deserve Attention?
Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye conditions linked to diabetes, with diabetic retinopathy being the most common. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye (the retina). This damage can cause swelling, bleeding and scarring — gradually affecting your vision.
The tricky part? In the early stages, most people feel absolutely fine and see perfectly well. Vision loss usually creeps in quietly, and once symptoms appear, damage may already be advanced.
That is why early checks matter. They spot issues long before you notice anything yourself.
A Word From Minh Van Tran, Principal Optometrist
“Diabetes is very common, especially in senior patients. Early detection of the effects of diabetes on our vision (diabetic retinopathy) is the key to managing & treating it. At VISIONPRO OPTOMETRISTS we use advanced techniques such as retinal photography & Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans of the back of the eyes to make sure we detect any diabetic retinopathy quite early on.” – Minh
At our clinic we genuinely believe proactive eye care protects independence, lifestyle and peace of mind. Technology helps us find tiny changes in the retina that the human eye cannot see on its own — and early spotting means we can act before things deteriorate.
World Diabetes Day
November coincides with World Diabetes Day (14 November), bringing focus to diabetes education and health checks. It is a great reminder to book your eye exam if you have diabetes — whether you feel fine or not.
Across our VisionPro clinics in St Albans, Sunshine and Footscray, we see a large number of patients with diabetes. Many are busy parents, grandparents, workers and students who simply get caught up in life and forget their annual exam. This month gives us a gentle nudge to check in, update records and protect your sight for the long term.
Who’s At Higher Risk Of Diabetes Related Eye Disease?
Anyone with diabetes can develop diabetic eye disease. But your risk goes up if:
- You have had diabetes for several years
- Your blood sugar levels are not well-controlled
- You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- You smoke
- You are pregnant and have diabetes
- You are aged over 50
If one or more of these applies to you, make a habit of regular eye checks. One appointment a year could save your sight.
What Are The Symptoms Of Diabetic Eye Disease?
Many people notice nothing at first. That is the challenging part. However, if you have diabetes and experience any of the following, book an appointment promptly:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Black spots or “floaters”
- Washed-out colours
- Sudden loss of vision
Never assume symptoms will disappear on their own. Eyes rarely give second chances.
How Does VisionPro Check Your Eye Health?
At VisionPro, we rely on modern imaging techniques that give detailed views of the retina. These include:
Retinal photography
This produces clear images of the back of the eye. It allows us to track changes over time and compare results year to year. Even tiny shifts can give important clues.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
Think of this as a scan that slices through the retina — without touching your eye. It shows microscopic swelling or leakage that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Comprehensive eye examination
We also check your vision, eye pressure, and the health of your blood vessels. If we spot anything concerning, we work closely with local ophthalmologists to ensure you get the right care promptly.
The goal: detect early, act early, protect sight.
How Can You Take Control Of Your Eye Health
You have more influence over your vision than you might realise. Here are practical habits that make a big difference:
- Book yearly eye exams. If you live with diabetes, make this non-negotiable.
- Manage blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Quit smoking if you smoke. It greatly reduces the risk of complications.
- Eat well, move often, stay hydrated. Your body — including your eyes — will thank you.
- Report any sudden vision changes. Quick action can make a difference.
- Track your medical results. Bring your HbA1c test details to your appointment — it helps us tailor advice.
Sight connects us to our loved ones, our hobbies and our independence. Diabetes does not have to interfere with this. The combination of regular checks, healthy habits and modern imaging protects vision in most people.
Many patients tell me they feel reassured once they see their retinal photos and scans — it brings confidence and control. And if we do spot something early, there is almost always time to act.
A Friendly Reminder
International Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month exists for a good reason — to remind us how valuable our eyesight is and how simple checks can protect it.
If it has been a while since your last diabetic eye exam, let November serve as your cue. Future-you will be grateful.
At VisionPro, we are here to help you stay on top of your eye health with care, technology and clear guidance.
Give our St Albans, Sunshine or Footscray clinics a call, or book online. Your vision is worth looking after.
You can call us on (03) 9687 8787 for Footscray, (03) 9364 5509 for St Albans, (03) 9600 1142 for Sunshine OR arrange an appointment using the “Book An Appointment” button in the navigation menu. All our practices are easily accessible, with nearby parking and public transport options available.
Minh gained his Bachelor of Optometry in 2000, and his Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics (ACO) in 2016.
He started VisionPro Optometrists in 2008 and has been Principal Optometrist ever since, working in both the Footscray and the St Albans practices.
Minh is a member of Optometrist Association Australia and the ACO. He always strives to achieve the highest standard of professionalism when delivering eyecare to all his patients.
Minh’s special areas of interest include ocular diseases and management, children’s vision and contact lens fitting. Minh enjoys travelling and reading in his spare time.