Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is an eye disease that is a leading cause of vision loss in older Americans.
Alliance Offers Resource on Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Published March 13, 2008
Brochure provides latest information on AMD diagnosis and treatment
March 13th, 2008, Washington, D.C. – In order to further educate Americans about age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the Alliance for Aging Research has updated its popular brochure, Taking a Closer Look at Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The new brochure provides the latest information on AMD risk factors, prevention and detection of vision loss, and the importance of early diagnosis. The brochure includes the Amsler Grid—a convenient tool that can detect changes in vision due to AMD.
AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in Americans over the age of 65—about 1.75 million Americans have been diagnosed with the disease. It is a progressive eye disease that causes deterioration of the macula—the small, central part of the retina that allows us to see fine details. While AMD rarely causes total blindness, it often results in significant loss of central vision.
There is currently no cure for AMD; however, exciting advances have been made in understanding the disease. New treatment options that help slow the rate of vision loss have been discovered, and there is much hope for the future of AMD prevention and treatment.
The updated brochure contains information for those who have been diagnosed, as well as for those who wish to learn about prevention. In order to help prevent the disease or slow its progress, sections of the brochure focus on risk factors, nutritional tips, and eye exam information.
The materials for this campaign were produced by the Alliance for Aging Research and reviewed by scientists at the National Eye Institute. To obtain a free copy of the brochure or other materials on eye health, visit the Alliance website at www.agingresearch.org or call 202-293-2856.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation.