Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans, but new treatments have dramatically changed the course of this disease over the last 10 years, making AMD more manageable than ever before. During AMD Awareness Month in February, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is reminding people with AMD that they can save their vision thanks to recent treatment advances, but early detection is a critical first step.
Who Is at Risk for AMD?You are more likely to develop AMD if you:
- have a family history of AMD
- smoke cigarettes
- are white
- eat a diet high in saturated fat (found in foods like meat, butter, and cheese)
- are overweight
- have hypertension (high blood pressure)
- are over 50 years old
Having heart disease is another risk factor for AMD, as is having high cholesterol levels.
To learn more about AMD, click the arrow below.
