Diabetics Face 25 Times Higher Risk of Becoming Blind

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- Those suffering from diabetes in Malaysia face a 25-time higher risk of experiencing eye disorders such as blindness, said an eye specalist on Wednesday. Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad said diabetes was one of the health problems faced here in Malaysia, and that people needed to be aware of the risks diabetes posed on their eyesight. "In Malaysia, around 20 per cent of those needing a pair of spectacles are due to eyesight problems faced by those below the age of 40, but I hear that this rate has been increasing," she told reporters after her speech at the Executive Dialogue session held at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR), here. Prof Muhaya said diabetics and individuals aged 40 should visit an eye specialist at least once a year for checkups in order to reduce the risks of becoming blind. When asked regarding the effects of technology on children's eyesight, she said that it was related, because their tendency to use devices such as computers caused their eyes to be fixed on the screen for a long time. "By right they should rest their eyes by looking at farther objects to reduce tiredness from their eyes. "Parents should also arrange outdoor activities with their children to reduce their tendency towards technological devices which could cause eyesight problems at a young age," said Muhaya. She said people should also carry out a healthy lifestyle to protect their eyesight and become a productive community. Around 200 participants were persent at the Executive Dialogue session titled "From the Eyes into the Heart" organised by IPPTAR. --BERNAMA