Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS)

The Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) was a significant research project that helped define how to diagnose and treat diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes affecting the eyes. It identified the stages of the disease, determined when treatment is needed, and established the effectiveness of treatments like laser therapy. The study provided key guidelines to prevent vision loss in people with diabetes, improving outcomes by encouraging early detection and appropriate management of eye changes caused by diabetes.