What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects your central vision, and the ability to see fine details. If left untreated, people lose the ability to:
Read
Drive
Recognize faces
AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects your central vision, and the ability to see fine details. If left untreated, people lose the ability to:
Read
Drive
Recognize faces
2.5 MILLION CANADIANS
are affected by AMD
AMD cases are expected to increase as the population ages. This means that:
The prevalence of AMD after the age of 55 is 2%
Get ahead of AMD and protect your vision with an eye exam.
Find a clinic near you
RISK FACTORS
While age is the biggest risk factor for developing AMD, there are several others, including:
Smoking
Smoking can double your risk and accelerate its progression
Diet
Eating more total fat and less fruits and veggies can put you at risk
Genetics
Family history is a major risk factor
You can lower your risk of AMD by wearing sunglasses, staying active, and staying on top of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. Regular eye exams can catch changes early, often before you notice any vision problems.
Signs and symptoms
Regular eye exams can detect AMD early, before you experience any symptoms like:
Blurry or fuzzy vision
Difficulty seeing fine details
Dark spots
If left untreated, AMD will progress, leading to significant central vision loss, and making it difficult to:
Recognize faces
Read
Drive
By catching age-related macular degeneration early, your eye doctor can develop a treatment plan to manage the condition and slow its progression.
Living with AMD
Living with age-related macular degeneration can be challenging, but regular eye exams, vision aids, lifestyle changes, and sun protection can help.