Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
www.jdrf.orgIt is estimated that more than 200 million people have diabetes. They are at risk of losing sight due to diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy affects the retina,the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that transmits visual messages via the optic nerve to the brain. When this delicate tissue is damaged by diabetic retinopathy, the result may be visual impairment or blindness.
The primary objective of the Lions program is to reduce the number of new cases of blindness caused by diabetic retinopathy through diabetes education, early detection and treatment, and support of research. Lions are especially encouraged to conduct awareness activities during the month of November--Lions Diabetes Education Month.