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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/diab-type-one-eye-timing

By when does CDC say type 1 diabetes needs a retinopathy eye exam?

Within 5 years of diagnosis.

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  1. Within 5 years ✔
  2. After 25 years
  3. Only when glasses break

Why: CDC gives a different starting point for type 1 than type 2 diabetes. An eye doctor and diabetes care team should set the actual schedule.

Huh, didn't know that: Early retinopathy may have no noticeable symptoms.

The dad joke
Why did the eye keep a five-year calendar? It wanted the big picture.
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References

Answer: Within 5 years. CDC gives a different starting point for type 1 than type 2 diabetes. An eye doctor and diabetes care team should set the actual schedule.

  1. CDC Vision Loss and Diabetes www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-vision-loss.html
    For type 1 diabetes, you should have an eye exam within 5 years of diagnosis.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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