Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans over 50. It affects the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision — and progresses in two forms: dry (more common, slower) and wet (less common, more severe). AMD has no cure, but early detection through regular eye exams and treatments such as anti-VEGF injections and AREDS2 supplements can slow progression significantly.
What is AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects your central vision. It occurs when the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision — deteriorates over time. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans over 50.
AMD affects more than
11 MILLION AMERICANS
AMD is the leading cause of vision loss for people over 50 in the United States — more than cataracts and glaucoma combined.
Approximately
1 IN 5 AMERICANS over 75
The risk of developing AMD increases significantly with age, making regular eye exams essential for adults over 50.
Prevalence reaches
~30% after age 75
Early detection through routine eye exams can slow progression and help preserve your quality of life.
Don't wait for symptoms
Get ahead of AMD and protect your vision with an eye exam
Find a clinic near youSeveral factors can increase your risk of developing AMD:
Age
The risk of AMD increases significantly after age 50 and rises sharply after 75.
Smoking
Smokers are two to four times more likely to develop AMD than non-smokers.
Family history
Having a close relative with AMD increases your lifetime risk.
Diet & lifestyle
A diet low in antioxidants and high in saturated fat may contribute to AMD progression.
Cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure and obesity have been associated with a higher risk of AMD.
Recognizing Symptoms
AMD often develops gradually. Knowing what to look for can help you seek care earlier.
Early symptoms
- Blurry or distorted central vision
- Difficulty seeing fine detail (reading, threading a needle)
- Colours appear less vivid or bright
- Straight lines appear wavy or curved
If left untreated
- Significant loss of central vision
- Dark or blank spots in the center of vision
- Inability to read, drive, or recognize faces
- Complete loss of functional central vision
Living with AMD
While there is no cure for AMD, treatments such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and vitamin supplementation (AREDS2 formula) can slow the progression of intermediate and advanced forms of the disease. Low vision aids and adaptive technologies can help people with AMD maintain independence and quality of life.
The earlier AMD is detected, the more treatment options are available. A routine eye exam is the single most effective step you can take to protect your vision.
Frequently asked questions
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Dry AMD is the more common form, progressing slowly as light-sensitive cells in the macula break down. Wet AMD is less common but more severe — abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and can cause rapid vision loss. Most people with wet AMD had dry AMD first.
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While AMD cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by not smoking, eating a diet rich in leafy greens and fish, maintaining a healthy weight, and having regular comprehensive eye exams. Early detection is the most effective protective measure.
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AMD is typically detected during a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist may use optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus photography, or fluorescein angiography to examine the macula and assess the severity of changes.
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Adults over 50 should have regular comprehensive eye exams. If you smoke, have a family history of AMD, or have cardiovascular risk factors, speak to your optometrist about more frequent monitoring.
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Dry AMD may be managed with AREDS2 supplements to slow progression. Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections (such as ranibizumab or bevacizumab) to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and preserve vision. Laser therapy is an option in some cases.
References
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Friedman DS, O'Colmain BJ, et al..Prevalence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the United States.Archives of Ophthalmology.2004.
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Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group.A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Trial of High-Dose Supplementation with Vitamins C and E, Beta Carotene, and Zinc for Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Vision Loss (AREDS Report No. 8).Archives of Ophthalmology.2001.
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American Academy of Ophthalmology.Age-Related Macular Degeneration PPP.American Academy of Ophthalmology.2019.