AMD Awareness Month, sometimes also referred to as AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month, was established in 2008 to raise awareness about the national prevalence and impact of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) on individuals, and the rippling effect on their networks of care.

There is no cure for age-related macular degeneration, but early detection, along with lifestyle changes and treatments, can help preserve vision for as long as possible for those at risk of developing AMD.

Early detection for the onset of all types of age-related macular degeneration is key to preserving vision for as long as possible. For Dry AMD, an early diagnosis means opportunities to reduce risk, delay onset, or slow progression of vision loss through lifestyle changes and supplements.

For wet AMD onset, time is even more critical. Research indicates that the earlier you start receiving anti-VEGF treatments the better your outcome is likely to be (one recent study suggests within the first 48 hours of onset1). In fact, an AMDF-supported study is showing that time-to-treatment may be the most important factor in preserving your vision.

Controllable Risk Factors for Age-related Macular Degeneration
The causes of AMD are complex, but several risk factors are controllable through lifestyle changes.

Smoking – Smoking doubles the risk of AMD, and recent studies have found that living in an air-polluted environment also increases risk Diet – a poor diet, high in saturated fats and cholesterol and low in antioxidants, can increase risk for AMD and accelerate its progression Unchecked cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure Weight – being overweight overall, but particularly around the abdomen Sun exposure without eye protection

Non-controllable Risk Factors for Age-related Macular Degeneration
Some risk factors of AMD are not under anyone’s control.

Age – the risk of developing AMD begins increasing by age 40, and exponentially increases after the age of 75. Genetics – a family history of macular degeneration. Light colored irises. Far-sightedness Being female – understood to be because women usually live longer than men.

Impact of vision loss on daily life can include all the obvious things, like not being able to drive, but it’s the accumulation of minor and major things that can rob a person of a sense of well-being and independence. Things like:

Difficulty with practical reading, such as signs, food labels, receipts, menus, etc. Difficulty with hobbies that require close detail Difficulty navigating new environments Difficulty recognizing faces, even of their own family and friends Increased isolation Increased risk of falls and injuries due to balance issues or not being able to detect walking hazards Lack of access to transportation Economic burden of treatments and so much more

 

 

Source: https://www.macular.org/amdawarenessmonth

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