What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in adults age 55 and older and affects more than 15 million people in the US. AMD is caused by a deterioration of the central portion of the retina, also known as the macula which is responsible for central vision. Early symptoms of AMD may include visual distortion, lines that appear wavy, blurring of central vision, difficulty reading, driving, or facial recognition.
Am I at risk for AMD?
The effects of AMD can be permanent and irreversible, so it is important to understand the most common risk factors. Major risk factors for AMD include:
- Family history
- Smoking (past or present)
- Low macular pigment
- Age
Other risk factors:
- Light colored skin and eyes
- Unprotected exposure to the sun
- Gender (females are more at risk)
- Obesity
- Poor diet
What can I do to minimize my risk for AMD?
Researchers have demonstrated that low macular pigment is associated with a higher risk of developing AMD. QuantifEye is a device that measures macular pigment density through a simple, non-invasive exam that determines macular pigment level, or Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD). If the test indicates low macular pigment, it may be increased with dietary changes and supplementation. Your EyeCare Professional can recommend EyePromise Supplements which will increase your macular pigment to a healthier level to protect your vision.
EyePromise Nutraceuticals
EyePromise Supplements rebuild macular pigment in the back of the eye by replenishing Zeaxanthin (zee-uh-zan-thin) and Lutein to preserve healthy vision. Zeaxanthin is scarce in the average daily diet and EyePromise supplements offer the highest level of dietary Zeaxanthin available.