More Americans between the ages of 20 and 74 go blind from complications from diabetes than any other cause(1) and between 40 and 45 percent of American adults with diabetes have some form of diabetic retinopathy. In addition, if you have diabetes, you are at greater risk for developing cataracts.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease resulting from diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the tiny blood vessels in the retina weaken and leak blood and fluid into the eye. As the disease progresses, new abnormal blood vessels grow on the retinal surface, affecting vision.

Can Diabetes or Diabetic Retinopathy Cause Cataracts?

Diabetic retinopathy cannot cause cataracts, but diabetes can. With diabetes, the eye's lens may become overhydrated. When this occurs, deposits or opacities can form at either the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the lens, forming a cataract. In some cases, this type of cataract can form in a few days.

Can Cataracts Cause Diabetes or Diabetic Retinopathy?

Cataracts cannot cause diabetes or diabetic retinopathy.

Things to Consider in Cataract Treatment

If you have diabetes or diabetic retinopathy and develop cataracts, you may be at an increased risk of Cystoid Macular Edema (CME), which could affect your surgical outcome. CME is a condition where multiple cyst-like areas of fluid in the macula cause retinal swelling or edema.

Your doctor may still recommend that you undergo cataract treatment, which involves replacing the natural lens of your eye with an intraocular lens or IOL. Talk to your doctor about any risks associated with surgery due to diabetes or diabetic retinopathy.

For more information on diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, visit the American Diabetes Association.