Diabetes Increases Risk of Blindness, Eye Diseases

Taking Preventative Steps for Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

(Honolulu, HI) November 4, 2025 — As research shows that people with diabetes are at higher risk of developing serious, sight-stealing eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, Hawaiian Eye Center wants to urge prevention for Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. 

In Hawaiʻi, diabetes continues to be a serious health challenge. Around 10.3% to 11.7% of adults, or 134,100 residents, have been diagnosed with diabetes. Experts estimate another 39,000 people are living with diabetes undiagnosed, and over one-third of them have prediabetes.

Many communities across our Islands, including Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Filipinos, are at higher risk for diabetes and its complications. Yet, national studies show that many people remain unaware of the connection between diabetes and vision loss, leaving their eyesight unprotected.

“Losing vision to diabetes is not an inevitable part of aging,” says Dr. Steven Rhee, D.O., Medical Director for Hawaiian Eye Center. “By getting regular dilated eye exams, managing blood sugar, and working closely with your doctors, you can help preserve your sight and quality of life.”

Early detection is key. Diabetic eye disease often has no early warning signs, but vision loss can be prevented if problems are caught and treated early. Older adults with diabetes, or prediabetes, should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year.