Grewal Eye Institute Urges Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Ahead of World Diabetes Day
As World Diabetes Day approaches, Grewal Eye Institute emphasizes the critical need for early screening to combat diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy affects 12.5% of diabetes patients in India.
Timely screening can prevent over 90% of diabetes-related blindness.
Grewal Eye Institute offers free diabetic eye screenings from November 5 to 21.
Chandigarh, November 3, 2026: In anticipation of World Diabetes Day on November 14, the Grewal Eye Institute (GEI) has raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR), a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not addressed promptly. During a press conference held at the Chandigarh Press Club, the institute's specialists highlighted the importance of early detection and regular retinal examinations as key measures to prevent avoidable blindness.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina, often progressing without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many individuals only seek medical help after experiencing vision deterioration. According to global estimates, around 20% of people with diabetes will develop some form of diabetic retinopathy. Dr. S.P.S. Grewal, CEO of GEI, stressed that individuals with Type 2 diabetes may already have DR at the time of their diabetes diagnosis, urging patients to prioritize regular eye check-ups even if their vision seems normal.
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) projects that the number of adults living with diabetes worldwide will rise from approximately 589 million in 2024 to an estimated 853 million by 2050. In India, the diabetic population is expected to grow from 89.8 million in 2024 to about 156.7 million by 2050. Dr. Mangat Ram Dogra, Director of Retina Services at GEI, pointed out that timely screening and treatment can avert over 90% of diabetes-related blindness, highlighting a study that indicates 12.5% of diabetes patients in India are affected by DR.
A concerning gap in screening was revealed by a survey in rural Uttar Pradesh, which found that 84.8% of individuals aged 50 and above with diagnosed diabetes had never undergone retinal screening. Dr. Dogra emphasized that retinal examinations should be an integral part of diabetes management, rather than waiting until vision loss occurs. Experts recommend comprehensive eye exams for Type 2 diabetes patients at diagnosis and for Type 1 patients within five years of diagnosis, with annual follow-ups thereafter.
As the festive season approaches, Dr. Parveen Sen from GEI cautioned against neglecting eye safety during Diwali celebrations. Fireworks can cause serious eye injuries, and families are advised to keep children away from firecrackers. GEI is offering free diabetic eye screenings from November 5 to 21, 2026, as part of its Chirag initiative, aimed at raising awareness about diabetes-related eye diseases and promoting regular eye examinations as crucial for diabetes management.
