In people with diabetes, retinopathyEye disease that is caused by damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Loss of vision may result. (Also known as diabetic retinopathy) X can get worse after removal of the lens, and glaucoma may start to develop. Diabetes can affect the eye at any age. If you are a juvenile onset with diabetes you can notice changes at 10 or 12 years old, sometimes even earlier. With adults it will usually take an onset in their 60s or later. Once established it is important to monitor once a year.