AOA Champions National Effort to Combat Diabetes

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AOA Champions National Effort to Combat Diabetes

Optometry-backed National Diabetes Goal would transform awareness into action

ST. LOUIS, MO (May 8, 2008) — The American Optometric Association (AOA), representing over 34,000 members in more than 6,500 communities nationwide, joined with other health care provider groups, government officials and leaders from the business and academic communities to announce a new national effort to stem the tide of diabetes in the United States. Unveiled May 7 at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., the National Diabetes Goal aims, by 2015, for 45% of Americans, who are at risk for type 2 diabetes, to know their blood glucose level and what actions to take.

While over 21 million Americans have diabetes, it is thought that more than 6 million Americans are unaware that they have the disease. The American Diabetes Association estimates that 54 million Americans aged 40 to 74 have pre-diabetes, a condition that puts them at risk for type 2 diabetes. Without decisive action, an estimated 50 million people - a full 15 percent of the population - will suffer from diabetes by the 2025. While diabetes is already recognized as the number one cause of acquired blindness in the U.S., type 2 diabetes can be prevented if people at risk get tested, learn their blood glucose level and take appropriate action.

Robert Layman, O.D. Chair of the AOA Diabetes Eye Care Project Team represented the AOA at the unveiling of the National Diabetes Goal. "Individuals should consider and eye exam the first line of detection for diabetes and its complications", said Dr. Layman. "In nearly all cases, diabetic retinopathy, a potentially blinding complication of diabetes and sometimes the very first sign of diabetes, can be diagnosed during a dilated eye exam in which drops are put into the eyes." "By having the courage to confront this issue head-on, we can be successful in reducing the incidence, progression and impact of diabetes", he added.

"Early detection is critical in maintaining healthy vision", said AOA president, Kevin L. Alexander, O.D., PhD. "Recognizing the importance of diabetes prevention and early treatment for lifelong eye health, AOA fully supports the National Diabetes Goal."

The AOA reminds patients that several factors influence whether someone with diabetes develops diabetic retinopathy. These include controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels, the length of time with diabetes, race and family history. Be sure to see an optometrist if your vision becomes blurry, you have trouble reading signs or books, experience double vision, feel pressure in your eyes, encounter straight lines appearing indistinct or your side vision is limited.

To find an optometrist in your area, or for additional information on eye health, specifically diabetic retinopathy, please visit www.aoa.org.

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