Raising awareness about diabetic eye disease in Hispanic/Latino communities to prevent vision loss from diabetes

Hispanics/Latinos are disproportionately affected by diabetes and are at increased risk of developing diabetic eye disease (DED), a group of eye problems people may face as a complication of this disease. To prevent vision loss and blindness from DED, early detection and timely treatment are imperative. There is an ongoing need to increase knowledge and awareness about DED and the crucial role comprehensive dilated eye examinations play in preserving sight.

To address the eye health needs of Hispanics/Latinos with diabetes, the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) of the National Eye Institute (NEI), through its °Ojo con su visión! (Watch out for your vision!) program, developed an assortment of culturally appropriate, health-literate, and evidence-based resources. The materials developed include a variety of public service announcements for use in print publications and on transit systems; e-cards that can be personalized; a Watch out for your vision! photonovella, which is an illustrated booklet targeted to Hispanics/Latinos about the eye complications of diabetes; and the Diabetes and Healthy Eyes Toolkit for promotoras or community health promoters to enable them to teach others about eye health. All materials are available in English- and Spanish-language versions and focus on educating Hispanics/Latinos with diabetes about protecting their sight by getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care for eye diseases.

This presentation will provide detailed information about these resources, including the processes that were employed to develop them and how they can be used and accessed.