Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of legal blindness among people over the age of 50 in the Western world. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina. As the photoreceptors begin to deteriorate, so does the central vision needed for everyday activities such as reading or driving. Peripheral vision is usually unaffected.

Approximately 25 to 30 million people have some form of AMD, and that number is expected to triple over the next 25 years. An estimated 6 million Americans have vision loss from AMD, and possibly another 13 to 15 million Americans have the early symptoms of the disease.

Research has yet to identify the causes of AMD. As the name suggests, the biggest risk factor is age—the disease affects almost 30% of people over age 75. The disease is more prevalent in women, Caucasians, smokers, people who are obese, and those who have a family history.

Possible preventive strategies are being investigated but have yet to be fully elucidated. Nutrition and the role of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in the prevention of macular degeneration received considerable attention as a result of the Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). In addition, the impact of other nutritional supplements, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, on eye health is currently being studied.

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