AN ophthalmologist with Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH), Dr Joshua Mmbaga, has advised Tanzanians to undergo regular eye screenings to detect early signs of diabetic eye disease.

Dr Mmbaga gave the advice on Wednesday in Dodoma while delivering a lecture during a special training programme held every Wednesday for hospital staff.

He stressed that people with diabetes should seek early medical attention from eye specialists to prevent vision complications caused by the disease.

“For those diagnosed with diabetic eye disease, treatment will be initiated promptly to prevent further damage that could lead to serious vision loss,” he said.

Dr Mmbaga urged the public to make regular eye checkups a habit to maintain eye health and learn how to prevent such issues.

“Diabetes raises blood sugar levels, which damages blood vessels, making them fragile and prone to rupture, leading to bleeding inside the eye and eventually vision loss,” he said.

"I advise the public to undergo eye screening at least once a year. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention and proper treatment from eye care specialists.” 

He emphasized that eye health should not be taken lightly. If someone notices any unusual symptoms, they should seek medical attention promptly.

Dr Mmbaga also highlighted contributing factors to diabetes, including high-sugar and high-carbohydrate diets and excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to diabetic eye disease.

He outlined common symptoms of diabetic eye disease, including blurred vision, cloudy sight, seeing floaters (tiny specks drifting in the field of vision), distorted vision and sudden vision loss.