Diabetic Retinopathy Charity — Prevent Blindness Before It Is Too Late
Pakistan has the world's third-highest number of people with diabetes. Indonesia ranks fifth. Diabetic retinopathy is stealing sight from working-age adults who cannot afford ophthalmic care — but treatment exists.
What does World Aid Network fund?
World Aid Network funds diabetic retinopathy treatment — screening, anti-VEGF injections, laser photocoagulation and vitreoretinal surgery — for patients who cannot afford ophthalmic care in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Treatment is delivered by licensed local vitreoretinal specialists through the Gift of Sight Appeal.
Unlike cataracts, diabetic eye disease requires ongoing intervention — screening, injections, laser and sometimes surgery. Without funded care, patients progress from blurred vision to irreversible blindness while still of working age.
The Gift of Sight Appeal funds diabetic retinopathy treatment through locally-licensed vitreoretinal specialists at partner hospitals. Your donation covers the procedures that prevent a lifetime of dependency.
Your donation at work
Every gift is restricted to patient care and emergency relief within our charitable Objects.
£75
Retinal screening and early laser treatment for one patient
£150
Anti-VEGF injection course preventing progressive vision loss
£300
Laser photocoagulation session for proliferative disease
£500
Contribution toward vitreoretinal surgery for advanced cases
Frequently asked questions
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the retina, causing leakage, blockage and abnormal new vessel growth. It is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults globally and is rising fast in Pakistan and Indonesia.
Can diabetic eye disease be treated?
Yes — with laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF injections and vitreoretinal surgery. The Gift of Sight Appeal now covers diabetic eye disease treatment alongside cataract surgery within our charitable Objects.
Why fund treatment abroad rather than in the UK?
World Aid Network funds patients in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia who cannot afford private ophthalmic care. In the UK, diabetic retinopathy is treated through the NHS. Our programme closes the access gap in low-income communities.
Prevent blindness from diabetic eye disease
Diabetic retinopathy is treatable when funded early. Your gift covers the procedures that prevent a lifetime of dependency for working-age adults.
£75 funds screening and early laser treatment for one patient.