Click on the links below to learn more about DR and DME.
What are diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME)?
Nearly 8 million Americans are affected by DR, which may result in problems with vision. DME is related to DR and also causes vision problems.
DR and DME damage the retina (reh‐TIN‐uh), the light‐sensitive part in the back of your eye that gathers images
DME occurs when DR affects the macula (MAK‐yu‐lah). The macula is a small indent on the retina that helps you see fine details
- If you have uncontrolled high blood sugar from diabetes, it is important to pay careful attention to your sugar levels and any problems with vision you may experience
- In DR and DME, uncontrolled high blood sugar may damage the parts of the eye that allow you to see, leading to problems with vision
Healthy Eye
When you have DR, you may develop too much of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor, or VEGF. This causes unhealthy blood vessel growth in the eye. These blood vessels can leak and swell, causing vision problems.
Eye With Diabetic Retinopathy
DR affects blood vessels in the light-sensitive tissue called the retina, which lines the back of the eye.
Worsening DR can lead to DME. When a person has DME, the blood vessels in the back of the eye swell, weaken, and leak. This happens in a part of the retina called the macula.
The macula is responsible for sharp, central vision. DME can cause too much fluid to build up in the macula, which can lead to vision changes if left untreated.
Eye With Diabetic Retinopathy
Eye With DR and DME
If you have diabetes and are experiencing problems with your vision, talk to your doctor right away.
What are risk factors for diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema?
Diabetes and uncontrolled high blood sugar may lead to DR or DME. If you do not manage your diabetes and blood sugar, you may increase your risk for problems with vision.
Risk factors for DR and DME include:
Duration of Diabetes
Pregnancy
Uncontrolled High Blood Sugar
High Blood Pressure
Race
Smoking
Higher rates of DR and DME have been found in people with Black, Hispanic, or Native American ancestry.
Get support from the LUCENTIS Patient Support Program
If you have diabetic retinopathy or diabetic macular edema, join the LUCENTIS Patient Support Program to receive more information and support, including:
The Genentech Ophthalmology Support Line that makes it easy for you to quickly access the information and support you need. Our representatives are available Monday–Friday, 9 ᴀᴍ to 8 ᴘᴍ Eastern Time.
Call 1-833-EYE-GENE (1-833-393-4363) and press 0 for any question.
Brochures mailed to your home
Emails with tips and resources to help you stay on track
Information on patient assistance options from Genentech Ophthalmology Access Solutions
LUCENTIS Patient Support Program
Enroll in the LUCENTIS Patient Support Program for resources like live one-on-one phone support, emails, or brochures.
Financial Assistance Options
There may be options to help you afford LUCENTIS, no matter what type of health insurance you have. Learn about Genentech Ophthalmology Access Solutions.