DID YOU KNOW...

• that every 10 seconds, two people in the world develop diabetes?
• that every 10 seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes?

The United Nations General Assembly recently passed a landmark resolution recognizing the diabetes epidemic as a global threat.  It is estimated that more than 246 million people have diabetes.  This number is expected to rise to a staggering 380 million by 2025.

Lions and Diabetes Awareness
Diabetes awareness was adopted as a long-term commitment of the association in March 1984. The Lions work in this area supports diabetes education, prevention, control and research. A primary objective of the program is to reduce the number of new cases of blindness caused by Diabetic Retinopathy. A screening test can detect diabetes. Lions clubs often arrange for free diabetes screenings to be performed in their communities.

Why is it important to know how diabetes affects the eyes?
People with diabetes are at risk of losing sight due to Diabetic Retinopathy.  It is a condition  which causes progressive damage to the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye. It is a serious sight-threatening complication of diabetes.

Diabetic Retinopathy is a result of damage to the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. They leak blood and other fluids that cause swelling of the retinal tissue and clouding of vision. The condition usually affects both eyes. If left untreated, Diabetic Retinopathy can cause blindness.

Annual eye examinations are especially important for people who have diabetes. Early detection and treatment can limit the potential for significant vision loss from Diabetic Retinopathy. An outstanding film, "Protect Your Vision: The Dilated Eye Exam," is available for Lions to show at club meetings and community events. It contains English and Spanish versions on one DVD. To order your copy, complete the order form.

For more information about diabetes
Visit the National Diabetes Education Program and the International Diabetes Federation.