Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of new vision loss in the United States and other industrialized countries. Maximal control of the diabetic condition and other collateral medical problems, such as hypertension, renal disease, and lipid levels, regular dilated eye examinations, and laser surgery and vitrectomy when indicated can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss from diabetes. The appropriate use of laser surgery and vitrectomy, and the timing of follow-up evaluations, have been defined by major clinical trials in the United States. Recent studies reinforce the results of these trials.