Let’s be real. Managing diabetes can be complicated. And with so much to juggle, vision health often gets overlooked. But here’s the thing: diabetic macular edema (DME) is a serious complication for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, especially if not detected or treated.
That’s why, in late April, Genentech announced the launch of All Eyes on DME, a campaign developed in partnership with advocacy group, diaTribe, that harnesses the power of humor to destigmatize and bring attention to diabetes-related vision conditions.
The multi-channel campaign features Damon Wayans’ iconic humor and personal diabetes journey, as well as patient perspectives to create a powerful cultural connection and drive actionable conversations about protecting vision from a serious yet often-overlooked eye condition.
What is DME?
According to The Cleveland Clinic, Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a serious eye condition and a complication of diabetes, occuring with damaged blood vessels in the retina leak fluid into the macula, causing it to swell. Located at the back of the eye, the macula is responsible for sharp, detailed, central vision. This swelling results in blurred vision, distorted images, and potential vision loss if left untreated
DME currently affects 750,000 people in the U.S. and is a leading cause of vision loss among people with diabetes, but this burden is not shared equally. People of color are two to three times more likely to experience sight-threatening diabetes-related conditions like DME, and around 60% of Americans living with diabetes skip or miss their recommended annual eye exams, entirely.
With the number of Americans with diabetes projected to reach 55 million by 2030 and the risk of DME rising significantly as the length of time with diabetes increases, vision loss within at-risk communities represents an escalating public health issue that can be addressed through early action and treatment discussions with a doctor.
Damon Wayans says DME is No Joke
It’s true, DME is no joke. But it’s also true that talking about health issues, especially ones related to vision loss and diabetes, can feel pretty scary. That’s why actor and comedian Damon Wayans has partnered with the All Eyes on DME campaign to bring humor to these important conversations. Damon, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2008, has always been in the public eye. Now, he’s sharing the spotlight with DME to inspire you to take charge of your health.
“Laughter is a powerful medicine. Of course, a few jokes can’t cure DME, but when we find humor in tough situations, it can be easier to engage in important conversations. As a Black man living with diabetes and a family history of related health conditions, I am very familiar with the hesitancy to open up about health. I also didn’t originally understand the risk of vision loss with diabetes, which is why I want to use this opportunity to break down those walls and create space for us to educate and learn from each other. I’m energized to join All Eyes on DME and get our community talking, laughing and learning together.”
What you can do: Take Action
If you have diabetes, don’t just laugh off “funny vision”. Routine eye exams help detect DME early, which may slow the progression of vision loss. The All Eyes on DME website offers a step-by-step plan to getting your eyes checked.
—
Photo Credit: Everett Collection / Shutterstock.com
