Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition affecting as many as 15 million Americans. Although it rarely results in complete blindness, it robs the individual of all but the outermost, peripheral vision, leaving only dim images or black holes at the center of vision. 14%-24% of the U.S. population aged 65-74 years and 35% of people aged 75 years or more have the disease. Other risk factors include people who smoke, people who have bad eating habits and are obese, people of white race, family history of AMD, and women have greater risk of developing AMD. There is no cure for AMD, but new treatments are available, such as lasers, intraocular injections and vision rehabilitation. Contact your ophthalmologist for more information or to schedule an evaluation. |
