New Delhi | Nov 23, 2025

Eye screenings are no longer just about checking vision or treating cataracts. Experts at the Intraocular Implant and Refractive Society of India (IIRSI) conference said that modern ophthalmology can now detect early signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, offering a window into overall systemic health. These advancements, powered by AI and improved imaging technology, are transforming how doctors approach preventive care.

Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev, chairman of the scientific committee at IIRSI, explained that a simple retinal photograph, when analyzed with AI tools, can predict the risk of diabetic retinopathy and even provide insights into heart health. The tiny blood vessels in the retina, he said, reveal early indications of prediabetes, certain cancers, and even leukemia, allowing non-invasive detection of potentially life-threatening conditions.

Dr Ritika Sachdev from the Centre for Sight highlighted that advanced imaging technology is now portable and accessible, reaching smaller towns and rural areas where specialized eye care has traditionally been limited. Given India’s high burden of diabetes, these low-cost, non-invasive methods can help detect and predict the disease much earlier, enabling timely intervention and better outcomes.

Dr Shishir Agrawal, a Delhi-based ophthalmologist, noted that ophthalmology has evolved dramatically. While cataract surgery used to be the mainstay of the field, modern practices now include advanced LASIK, next-generation intraocular procedures, and sophisticated imaging that monitors overall eye and systemic health. He also cautioned that rising screen time across all age groups is increasing eye strain, making proactive protection essential.

Speakers at the conference also emphasized the impact of environmental factors on eye health. Dr Mahipal Sachdev pointed out that air pollution, often considered only harmful to the lungs, can directly affect the eyes, leading to irritation and allergies. Protective eyewear and lubricating drops were recommended as simple measures to counter these effects.

The 2025 IIRSI conference, themed “Hindsight. Insight. Foresight.”, brought together over 700 experts from India and abroad, representing specialties in cataract, refractive, cornea, and anterior segment care. The event provided a platform to discuss past learnings, current best practices, and innovations that are shaping the future of ophthalmology.

Overall, the conference highlighted that eye care is no longer limited to vision correction. Through advanced technology and AI-driven analysis, eye screenings are becoming a vital tool for early detection of chronic diseases, helping people take preventive steps before serious complications develop. With increasing screen exposure, pollution, and lifestyle-related health risks, experts stressed the importance of regular eye check-ups as an integral part of overall health care.

 Experts Say Eye Screenings Can Now Spot Early Indicators of Diabetes and Heart Disease

Eye exams are no longer just about checking vision or treating cataracts. Experts at the IIRSI 2025 conference revealed that modern eye screenings can detect early warning signs of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers. Advanced imaging technologies and AI-powered retinal scans allow doctors to see changes in blood vessels that may indicate prediabetes, leukemia, and cardiovascular risks, making eye care a powerful tool for preventive health.

Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev explained that a simple retinal photograph can now provide critical insights into a person’s overall health, while Dr Ritika Sachdev highlighted that portable imaging devices are making this technology accessible to smaller towns and rural areas. With India being the diabetes capital of the world, early detection through affordable and non-invasive eye scans is a game-changer.

Experts also warned about the impact of pollution and increasing screen time on eye health, emphasizing protective measures like eyewear and lubricating drops. Dr Shishir Agrawal noted how ophthalmology has evolved far beyond cataracts, with advanced LASIK, intraocular surgeries, and AI-driven diagnostics reshaping the field.

Regular eye screenings can now play a critical role in detecting systemic health issues early, helping people take preventive action and stay healthy.