A new eye scanner could hit the market soon, and it may help identify high-risk patients and provide early detection. Epipole, based in Rosyth, Scotland, has developed a small camera that acts as an eye scanner and can spot blood clots at the back of the eye and other signs of the condition. Using such a tool could reduce vision loss caused by prolonged diabetes. 

In 2007, EyeNet Magazine quoted Dr. Donald Fong, director of clinical trials research at Southern California Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, "We're in a time of evolving management, and what is evolving is our use of the variety of treatments out there and sorting out which are better than laser." 

The idea of losing eyesight is scary. Be sure to talk to the doctor about any concerns and the long-term effects of eye surgery or other treatments. Also enlist the support of family and friends to help prevent or cope with vision loss.