01/06/2026

MONDAY | JUNE 1, 2026

26

HEALTH

A nationwide survey revealed more than eight in 10 Malaysians remain unaware of major sight threatening retinal conditions. – PICS FROM 123RF

Experts stress symptoms such as prolonged dryness or any discomfort in the eyes should be looked into for early detection.

Ű BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI

F OR many Malaysians, blurred or changing vision is often dismissed as fatigue, ageing or excessive screen time. However, health experts are now warning seemingly minor symptoms such as persistent eye pain, sudden wavy lines, gritty dryness or sensitivity to bright lights may signal far more serious retinal diseases that threaten long-term vision. A recent nationwide survey revealed more than eight in 10 Malaysians remain unaware of major sight-threatening retinal conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular oedema (DME), despite both diseases becoming increasingly relevant in Malaysia’s ageing, diabetes-prone population. Hidden danger behind ‘normal’ eye symptoms One of the greatest concerns is how easily retinal disease symptoms are overlooked. Persistent eye pain, experienced by 38.4% of respondents, is often mistaken for temporary strain. Sudden wavy or distorted lines in vision, reported by 30.4%, are frequently attributed to exhaustion or natural ageing rather than possible retinal damage. Others dismiss gritty or dry sensations in the eyes (17.8%) or heightened sensitivity to bright lights (8.5%) as minor irritations. Yet these symptoms may indicate serious underlying conditions. AMD primarily affects older adults by damaging the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. This can result in blurred faces, reading difficulties and distorted straight lines. DME, meanwhile, is a diabetes-related complication caused by fluid build-up in the retina, which can progressively impair vision if left untreated. According to Deputy Director-General of Health (Research and Technical Support) Datuk Dr Nor Fariza Ngah, eye health evolves throughout every stage of life, with different age groups facing distinct challenges. However, public understanding of retinal diseases such as AMD and DME remains worryingly limited. “The reasons include poor general awareness, widespread misconceptions, delayed responses to symptoms and a common tendency to adopt a ‘wait-and-see’ mindset. In some cases, medical consultations may also prioritise more widely recognised conditions

Overlooking warning signs o Experts warn delayed action, poor awareness of AMD, DME putting millions at risk of preventable sight loss

Limited public education, insufficient conversations during routine health screenings and barriers such as treatment costs, long waiting times and appointment difficulties continue to discourage early intervention. Experts stress retinal health must become a routine part of broader healthcare discussions, particularly for individuals over 40 and those living with diabetes. “For many people living with diabetes, staying consistent with care is not simply about willingness. Cost, waiting time, appointment availability and the burden of managing multiple health needs can all affect follow through. “This is why eye care must be better integrated into diabetes care, with clearer reminders, simpler referral pathways and practical support for regular follow-up. When the care journey is easier to maintain, patients are better supported in protecting their vision over time,” added Mohazmi. Early detection can preserve sight The message from specialists is clear: Do not wait. Regular eye examinations, particularly comprehensive retinal screenings, remain among the most effective ways to detect AMD and DME before irreversible vision loss occurs. While many Malaysians may normalise subtle visual changes, experts warn early action can mean the difference between preserved sight and permanent damage. As ageing and diabetes rates continue rising nationwide, recognising these often overlooked symptoms may prove critical in safeguarding Malaysia’s collective vision.

silently damage retinal blood vessels. Without regular retinal screenings, many patients remain unaware until symptoms begin affecting their daily lives. “Diabetes care is often focused on blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, but eye health needs to be part of the same conversation. For people living with diabetes, regular comprehensive eye examinations are an important part of long-term care. We need to help patients understand that protecting their eyes is part of managing diabetes well,” said Diabetes Malaysia honorary general secretary and primary care specialist Dr Mohazmi Mohamed. Quality of life at stake Vision loss does not simply affect eyesight – it directly impacts independence. Survey respondents identified losing the ability to drive, read, work or use digital devices as major concerns associated with declining vision. As Malaysia’s population continues to age, untreated retinal diseases could increasingly burden productivity, caregiving and overall quality of life. Why awareness remains dangerously low Despite medical advancements, awareness of retinal disease remains significantly lower than for more commonly recognised eye conditions such as cataracts.

such as cataracts or glaucoma, causing retinal diseases to be overlooked. This is why initiatives such as the ‘Don’t Wait to See’ campaign are crucial in helping Malaysians identify vision changes earlier, seek prompt medical attention and incorporate regular eye screenings into their overall healthcare routine,” said Nor Fariza. Painless vision loss is often the most dangerous Perhaps even more alarming is that many retinal diseases develop without pain during their early stages. This absence of discomfort can create a false sense of security, encouraging many individuals to delay seeking help. Survey findings showed over 81% of Malaysians would postpone treatment for painless vision changes, even though sudden central vision distortion may indicate urgent retinal damage. As a result, many only seek medical intervention once vision loss has significantly progressed, limiting treatment effectiveness. Malaysia’s high diabetes prevalence further compounds the issue. Health data shows nearly 39% of older Malaysians live with diabetes, yet awareness of DME remains critically low. Eye health is often deprioritised compared with blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure management, despite the fact that uncontrolled diabetes can

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