Diabetic retinopathy arises from changes in the blood vessels of the retina, a nerve layer behind the eye that senses light. When these blood vessels become damaged, vision loss occurs by two processes known as "proliferative retinopathy" and "macular oedema". Proliferative retinopathy occurs when new vessels bleed into the centre of the eye often resulting in blurred vision. Macular oedema occurs when fluid leaks from these blood vessels into the centre of the retina or macula, making it difficult to focus. Both of these conditions may eventually destroy the retina if left untreated. While laser therapy is a successful treatment in preventing blindness, it may result in the loss of vision when the macula is already involved.
For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact: Australia: Justin O'Day, Ophthalmologist , Peter Colman, Diabetologist, Tim Davis, Diabetologist, Via: Beth Quinlivan, University of Sydney, Ph: +61-2-9036-6528, Mob: +61-0-419-229-134; At the AHA Conference, Orlando Florida, Anthony Keech, Study Chairman, Paul Mitchell, Ophthalmologist, Via: Olivia Rajabaly, Euro RSCG Life, Ph: +33-1-58-47-87-64, Mob: +33-6-87-24-16-75
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