Researchers found a direct link between increasing glycosylated hemoglobin values and the progression of retinopathy in both the DCCT and EDIC studies. Intensive therapy is more effective before the onset of complications, according to the study. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the cells that produce insulin, resulting in no or a low amount of insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily in order to live.
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in American adults.
It is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina. In some people with diabetic retinopathy, retinal blood vessels may swell and leak fluid, while in others, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. These changes may result in vision loss or blindness. Better control of blood sugar levels slows the onset and progression of retinopathy and lessens the need for laser surgery for severe retinopathy. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile onset diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, usually occurs before age 30.