Mark Andrews is using his platform to spotlight a message that reaches far beyond sports: managing type 1 diabetes is a full-body commitment, and that includes protecting eye health. The NFL tight end, who has lived with the condition since age 9, says consistent care has helped him stay focused on performance and daily life.
Andrews explains that regular checkups have been part of his routine for years, with annual eye exams serving as a key piece of his diabetes management plan. His approach reflects a broader truth for people with diabetes: stable blood sugar, healthy blood pressure, and balanced cholesterol can all support long-term vision wellness.
Why Eye Health Matters
For people with diabetes, eye care is especially important because the condition can raise the risk of retinal complications, including diabetic macular edema (DME). Routine screenings help doctors identify changes early, when treatment options may be most effective. Andrews says that keeping his vision in check helps him perform at his best on the field.
He also points to the value of modern treatment advances for adults living with DME, noting that today's care options offer more flexibility and support than ever before. For him, that progress represents confidence, continuity, and a stronger sense of control over the future.
From Personal Routine to Public Message
Beyond his own experience, Andrews wants young people and families to see that diabetes does not have to define ambition. He continues to support awareness efforts, research, and community outreach, encouraging others to stay consistent with care and to keep pursuing their goals.
His message is simple and forward-looking: with informed habits, regular medical follow-up, and growing treatment innovation, people living with diabetes can protect their health while staying active in the lives they want to build. That outlook may help shape a future where preventive care and performance go hand in hand.
