Eye Exam for Patients With Diabetes (EED)

The percentage of persons 18–75 years of age with diabetes (type 1 or type 2) who had a retinal eye exam. 

Why It Matters

Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health conditions, including vision loss and blindness (1). Regular eye exams are the best way to reduce the risk of blindness and maintain a healthy and productive life. 

Diabetic retinopathy is progressive damage to the small blood vessels in the retina that may result in loss of vision. It is the leading cause of blindness in adults between 20 and 74 years of age. Approximately 4.1 million adults are affected by diabetic retinopathy. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy helps reduce the risk of vision loss (3). Adults with type 1 diabetes should have an initial dilated and comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist within 5 years after the onset of diabetes (4). Adults with type 2 diabetes should have an initial dilated and comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist at the time of the diabetes diagnosis. If there is no evidence of retinopathy for one or more annual eye exams and glycemic indicators are within the goal range, then screening every 1–2 years may be considered. If any level of diabetic retinopathy is present, subsequent dilated retinal examinations should be repeated at least annually by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. If retinopathy is progressing or sight-threatening, then examinations will be required more frequently. 

Historical Results – National Averages

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References

  1. American Diabetes Association (ADA). Diabetes Complications. https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/complications
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 2023. “National Diabetes Statistics Report.” https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 2020. Common Eye Disorders and Diseases. https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/basics/ced/index.html
  4. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 2025. 12. “Retinopathy, Neuropathy, and Foot Care: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025.” Diabetes Care 48(Suppl. 1):S252–65.
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