The Eye Foundation, a leading super-speciality eye hospital in Coimbatore, organised a public awareness rally on 14th November 2025, to mark World Diabetes Day.

The rally aims to highlight the growing concern of diabetes and its serious impact on eye health, particularly the condition known as diabetic retinopathy — a major cause of preventable blindness.

The rally began from The Eye Foundation, Coimbatore, with participation from doctors, staff, students, and members of the public.

Ashok Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic- Coimbatore city flagged off the rally along with Dr. Jatinder Singh, Senior Consultant & Surgeon, Vitreo Retina; Dr. Srishti Ramamurthy, Consultant & Surgeon, Vitreo Retina; Dr. Thennarasun, Senior Consultant & Surgeon, Vitreo Retina;  Krishna Kumar, Vice President – Projects; Arjun, Chief Operating Officer; and Dr. Ashraya Nayaka, Senior Consultant & Surgeon, Vitreo Retina, The Eye Foundation.

Participants carried awareness placards and messages emphasizing early detection, lifestyle control, and regular eye examinations for people living with diabetes.

Diabetic Retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

In its early stages, the condition may not cause any noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to blurred vision, bleeding inside the eye, retinal detachment, and even permanent blindness if left untreated.

According to recent studies, one in three diabetics may have some form of diabetic retinopathy, underscoring the urgent need for regular eye screening.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ramamurthy, Chairman, The Eye Foundation, said “Diabetes affects millions of Indians, and its impact on eye health is often underestimated. The tragedy is that vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is largely preventable if detected and treated early.

Through this rally and our associated awareness programs, we hope to educate people on the importance of timely eye check-ups and good diabetes control.”

As part of the World Diabetes Day observance, The Eye Foundation will also organize free diabetic eye screening camps and educational sessions throughout the week.

These initiatives will help the community better understand how diabetes affects the eyes and the preventive measures that can protect vision.

With a legacy of nearly four decades, The Eye Foundation continues to be a pioneer in advanced eye care across South India. The hospital remains deeply committed to spreading awareness and providing cutting-edge treatment for sight-threatening eye conditions.