Retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is most commonly associated with longstanding diabetes (diabetic retinopathy) and uncontrolled hypertension, but can also result from other vascular or inflammatory conditions. Early stages may be asymptomatic, while advanced retinopathy can cause vision loss, hemorrhages, or retinal detachment. Treatment may include tighter control of underlying disease, laser therapy, injections, or surgery. Because retinopathy often reflects systemic vascular damage, it is an important marker of overall cardiovascular risk and disease duration in life insurance underwriting, particularly for diabetic applicants.

Underwriters reviewing medical records look for references to nonproliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and ophthalmology follow-up. The presence and severity of retinopathy help gauge how long diabetes or hypertension has been poorly controlled and whether other complications are likely. Mild, stable retinopathy may still be compatible with insurability at rated classes, while advanced disease with significant vision loss often leads to higher ratings or declines. Advisors working with diabetic clients can improve outcomes by obtaining recent eye exam reports and demonstrating good ongoing care. Explaining that retinopathy signals broader vascular stress helps clients understand why it weighs heavily in underwriting decisions.