Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the main cause of blindness in working-age Americans (ages 20–74). It's caused by alterations in the retina's blood vessels. Diabetic retinopathy can be detected and treated using effective and cost-effective therapies. Diabetes patients should have a dilated eye exam at least once a year, but only approximately two-thirds of them do. Furthermore, proper diabetes treatment, including glucose, blood pressure, and lipid control, can slow the advancement of diabetic retinopathy. People who are at risk for diabetes should change their lifestyle to delay or prevent diabetes by a healthy diet and regular exercise.