Age-Related Macular Degeneration

(AMD)

AMD in the News:

High Incidence of Uncorrected Vision Problems Found In Americans Over 60 (08/06)

Cutting Carbs = Healthy Vision (06/06)

A Carrot a Day Can Keep the Eye Doctor Away? (02/06)

Excess Body Fat May Elevate Risk of Vision Problems (01/06)

What is AMD?
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease affecting the macula, which is located in the retina. It currently affects 1.75 million Americans and is one of the most common causes of legal blindness and vision impairment in older Americans. AMD is painless. It affects the central vision needed to perform many daily activities like reading and driving.

Signs and Symptoms:

Blurred Vision
small blind spots
straight lines appear crooked

Diagnosis:
Only an eyecare professional can accurately diagnose AMD. Tests performed during a regular eye exam will allow your eye doctor to determine if you have AMD. For more on the basics of eye exams, click here.

Causes/Risk Factors:

Increased age
Smoking
Obesity
Race (Whites are at a much higher risk for losing vision from -AMD than African-Americans).
Family history (People with a family history of AMD are at higher risk of getting the disease).
Women have a greater risk than men.

Prevention: Comprehensive eye exams are the most important component to ensuring overall healthy vision. To find an eye doctor in your area, use our Doctor Locator to the left.

A family history of Age-Related Macular Degeneration increases the risk of developing the disease. Do you know your family's health history? Click here to learn more about collecting this important information.

Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to have AMD.

Obesity is a risk factor for AMD. A combination of a healthy diet and increased exercise can decrease the chances of becoming obese.