It is estimated that approximately 25% of people with type 1 diabetes will have some form of diabetic retinopathy five to ten years after their symptoms develop. If diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, the prognosis is good. Early stage diabetic retinopathy can usually be treated by bringing your diabetes under better control. Diabetic retinopathy is a common amongst diabetics and is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults under the age of 65. At North Shore Eye Care we see many patients with many diseases including diabetes and it is important for all diabetics to have their eyes checked regularly.