Diabetic retinopathy is a leading complication of diabetes mellitus and the main cause of blindness among working-age adults. DR results from prolonged hyperglycemia, which leads to damage to the retinal blood vessels through complex pathophysiological mechanisms, including microvascular changes, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. Diabetic retinopathy is clinically divided into non-proliferative and proliferative stages. NPDR is characterized by increased capillary permeability and occlusion, which can lead to microaneurysms, hemorrhages, and hard exudates. PDR is more severe and involves the formation of new, abnormal blood vessels that can cause serious complications such as retinal detachment and severe vision loss. The main risk factors for developing DR include the duration of diabetes, high levels of HbA1c, elevated blood pressure, and serum lipids. Prevention focuses on strict control of blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and lipid profiles, as well as regular ophthalmological examinations to detect retinal changes early. Treatment of DR includes several approaches. Laser photocoagulation is used to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent the formation of new abnormal vessels. Intravitreous injections of anti-VEGF drugs reduce inflammation and pathological angiogenesis. In more severe cases, vitreoretinal surgery may be necessary to remove vitreous hemorrhages or repair retinal detachments. Despite current therapies, many patients do not experience improvement, highlighting the need for further development of new therapeutic methods. Future research should focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of the disease, as well as developing regenerative therapies, such as stem cell transplantation, which could offer the possibility of restoring damaged retinas. A comprehensive approach includes prevention, early detection, and advanced therapeutic methods to reduce the incidence and severity of diabetic retinopathy and improve the quality of life for patients with diabetes.