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As we approach the Global Eye Health Summit 2026, we urge European policymakers to recognize the crucial needs of the 17 million people at risk of blindness because of diabetes.
Diabetic eye conditions (DEC) are a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness in Europe, affecting millions of people and placing a heavy economic burden on healthcare systems. With the global rise in diabetes and an ageing population, the incidence of diabetic eye conditions is expected to grow.3 Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated, missing the opportunity to prevent a disability that has a serious impact on individuals and society.
In response to this public health challenge, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and AbbVie launched the Diabetic Eye Conditions Coalition in June 2024 to raise awareness and address urgent health issues faced by people living with DEC around the world. This coalition welcomes new members to join.
IAPB and AbbVie have convened global, national, and local partners committed to preventing, screening, and treating DEC in Europe and globally. Their efforts have demonstrated that it is possible to reduce the number of people with DEC and improve their outcomes through coordinated, strategic actions.
To prevent vision loss and ensure effective and equitable management of DEC, the Diabetic Eye Conditions Coalition calls on policymakers to:
