Tag Archives: screenings

Protect Your Vision: Understanding and Managing Diabetic Retinopathy

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss and blindness in people with diabetes. It damages blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. As high blood sugar levels cause these blood vessels to swell, leak, or become blocked, vision may be disrupted, often without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

Why Annual Eye Screenings Are Crucial

Diabetic retinopathy often shows no symptoms in its early stages. By the time vision changes occur, the disease may be advanced. Comprehensive, yearly dilated eye exams are essential for early detection and treatment, helping to prevent or slow disease progression​.

The Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Stage 1: Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

  • Early Stage: Many people with diabetes experience this stage, which occurs when tiny blood vessels in the retina leak and cause swelling.
  • Macular Edema: If the macula (the part of the retina responsible for central vision) swells, it can lead to vision loss. This is the most common cause of vision problems in diabetic patients​.

Stage 2: Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

    • Advanced Stage: The retina starts to grow new, fragile blood vessels.
    • Vision Risks: These new vessels often bleed into the vitreous (gel-like center of the eye), leading to floaters or even total vision obstruction​.

Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy

Anyone with diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, or gestational—can develop diabetic retinopathy. Risk factors include:

  • Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk
  • Uncontrolled Blood Sugar: High levels over time increase complications
  • High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: These can exacerbate the damage to blood vessels
  • Pregnancy: Gestational diabetes increases risk
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking accelerates disease progression​

Manage Your Diabetes to Lower Risk

Effective diabetes management can reduce your risk of developing or worsening retinopathy:

  • Stay Active: Regular exercise can help control blood sugar
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your doctor’s guidance for insulin or other treatments​

Take Charge of Your Vision Health

Annual diabetic retinopathy screenings are a key component of diabetes care, offering early detection of eye changes before symptoms arise. This simple, painless process includes administering eye drops to dilate your pupils and allowing your doctor to examine the retina for signs of leaking or abnormal blood vessels. Routine screenings can prevent vision loss through timely intervention, making them a vital part of managing your diabetes.

Convenient Screenings at MPCP

Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) offers in-office diabetic retinopathy screenings, making it easier to integrate proactive eye care into your diabetes management. Our approach provides:

  • Convenience: No need for separate appointments at external clinics.
  • Comprehensive Care: Screenings are seamlessly incorporated into our patient-centered diabetes care plan.
  • Proactive Health Monitoring: Detecting potential complications early allows for personalized care tailored to your needs.

Take control of your eye health today. Visit your patient portal to schedule your diabetic retinopathy screening at MPCP and protect your vision with compassionate, coordinated care designed to support your overall wellness. 

 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month—Let’s Talk About Early Detection

October is dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness, supporting those affected by breast cancer, and encouraging regular screenings for early detection.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, affecting one in eight women in their lifetime. Did you know men can develop breast cancer, too? 

Everyone—regardless of gender—should know their risk factors and talk to their MPCP provider if they notice any unusual changes.   

Who’s At Risk of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer risk is influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from age and genetics to lifestyle choices. Understanding these risk factors can help make informed health decisions and engage in preventive care.

  • Age: Especially for women over 50.
  • Family History: Includes genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.
  • Breast Tissue Density: Dense breast tissue can be a contributing factor.
  • Reproductive History: Early menstruation, having children later in life, or not having children.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, carrying excess weight, and lack of physical activity.

Regular Mammograms and Screenings Matter

Regular screenings are the best way to catch breast cancer early—before it has a chance to spread and when it’s most treatable. Experts recommend starting annual mammograms at age 40.

Mammograms can detect small changes in breast tissue long before symptoms appear, giving you more treatment options and a better chance of successful outcomes.

Can Men Be Affected by Breast Cancer?

While breast cancer in men is rare, it’s still something to keep in mind. Men with a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic conditions should talk to their MPCP provider about their risk and whether screening makes sense for them.

Make Breast Health a Priority

This month, take a moment to prioritize your health or remind someone you care about to do the same. If you’re due for a mammogram, schedule your screening today. Early detection saves lives. Have concerns or questions about your risk factors? Don’t hesitate to reach out to your MPCP provider.