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Diabetic retinopathy primarily affects the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. This condition is a common complication of diabetes and is caused by damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to a decrease in blood circulation and the development of abnormal blood vessel growth, which can result in bleeding or swelling within the retina. This damage can significantly impact vision and, if untreated, may lead to blindness.

The lens, cornea, and iris are not primarily affected in diabetic retinopathy. The lens is responsible for focusing light onto the retina and is typically involved in conditions such as cataracts. The cornea is the clear front layer of the eye and plays a key role in overall vision but is not directly impacted by diabetic retinopathy. The iris, which is the colored part of the eye, controls the size of the pupil but does not play a role in this diabetic complication. Understanding the specific impact of diabetic retinopathy on the retina is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of the disease.