What is diabetic retinopathy primarily caused by?

Diabetic retinopathy is primarily caused by leaking retinal blood vessels, which is a complication associated with diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to increased permeability and leakage. This can cause fluid to accumulate in the retina, leading to swelling and affecting vision. The condition can progress to more severe forms where abnormal growth of blood vessels occurs, further impairing vision and potentially leading to blindness if not treated.

Other factors such as uncontrolled blood pressure, excessive sun exposure, and genetic predisposition can impact overall eye health, but they are not the primary causes of diabetic retinopathy. Uncontrolled blood pressure can exacerbate existing retinal issues but is not solely responsible for the development of the condition. Excessive sun exposure is more related to cataracts or other skin-related conditions rather than diabetic complications. Genetic predisposition can influence individual risk factors for various eye diseases, but the direct cause of diabetic retinopathy remains tied to diabetic damage to the retinal blood vessels.