October 23, 2003

Genesis Offers Vision Screening For Persons With Diabetes

Davenport, IA - An annual, dilated, eye exam is important for persons with Diabetes because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the eye and damage the retina. As part of National Diabetes Awareness Month in November, Davenport Eye Group is offering free vision screenings for persons with diabetes.

Tina Eckhardt, M.D. will provide the screening on Friday, November 7, from 1:15 to 4:30 p.m. at the Davenport Eye Group office, 1230 East Rusholme Street, Suite 203, 2nd floor, Medical Office Building 2 on the Genesis East campus, Davenport. Your eyes will be dilated for the exam, so bring sunglasses or be accompanied by someone to drive you home after the exam.

"Diabetic retinopathy has no early warning signs, so you may not notice changes in your vision until it's too late," says Dr. Eckhardt, an ophthalmologist with Davenport Eye Group. "With early detection, routine monitoring and timely treatment with laser surgery, vision can be saved in more than 90 percent of those who would otherwise become blind from the disease. That's why it's important for people with diabetes to have a dilated eye exam at least once a year."

Nearly half of the nation's estimated 16 million people with diabetes will develop some degree of diabetic retinopathy, the most common form of diabetic eye disease. Diabetic retinopathy damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. Other eye problems that can develop include cataract and glaucoma.

Appointments are necessary. When you register you will be asked if you have Type I or Type 2 diabetes. To register or for more information call Genesis On Call at, 421-2000 or 1-800-383-2575.