February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Awareness Month!
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease of the retina and the #1 cause of central vision loss in Americans aged 65 and older. It occurs when the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed central vision—is damaged.
AMD affects central vision but not side (peripheral) vision. For example, imagine looking at a clock: you may see the clock’s numbers clearly, but not the hands in the center.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, an estimated 19.8 million Americans (12.6%) aged 40 and older were living with AMD. Of those, approximately 1.49 million had vision-threatening disease.
Early detection is critical, because once central vision is significantly lost, it may or may not be possible to restore it.
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
The biggest risk factors include:
- Smoking – even secondhand smoke
- Genetics / Family history
- Aging
Types of Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD
The most common form of macular degeneration. It typically progresses slowly and is managed with careful monitoring and nutritional support. For patients who meet criteria, AREDS2 vitamin supplementation (including lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamin C) has been shown to reduce the risk of progression. Regular dilated exams and OCT imaging are essential to monitor for changes or conversion to the wet form.
If you are taking certain Nutrafol hair supplements, they may already contain lutein and zeaxanthin though they are not a substitute for AREDS2 when indicated.
Wet AMD
Less common but more aggressive. Wet AMD can cause rapid central vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage of fluid or blood under the retina. Treatment usually involves intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, which help reduce leakage and slow vision loss. If diagnosed, timely referral to a retinal specialist is critical to preserve as much vision as possible.
Geographic Atrophy (GA)
Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It causes areas of damage (atrophic lesions) under the retina and gradually expands to involve the macula and fovea—the center of your vision—leading to irreversible central vision loss over time. About 1 million Americans are affected, with roughly 160,000 new cases each year. Until recently, there was no approved treatment. Now, an FDA-approved medication (pegcetacoplan/Syfovre) can help slow disease progression. Although lost vision cannot be restored, current and developing treatments aim to slow lesion growth and preserve remaining vision as long as possible.
How Is AMD Detected?
Screening is simple and non-invasive:
- Comprehensive dilated eye exam
- OCT imaging with a macular scan to look at all the layers of your retina.
These tests allow us to detect subtle changes before you notice symptoms. We check these tests when you get a dilated complete exam.
Screening tests that are not as accurate that you can do at home include an Amsler grid which is free and can also include programs like ForseeHome devices (if approved by your insurance).
Why Early Monitoring Is Critical
If you wait too long, treatment options may be limited. Small distortions or mild blurriness can be early warning signs. Monitoring and timely referral have dramatically improved our ability to prevent severe central vision loss.
We have come a long way and proactive care makes all the difference.
If you are a smoker or know any smokers, please quit smoking and urge your friends and family to quit smoking to help preserve their vision as long as possible. Ask your PCP and look at some government programs like SmokeFree if you need help quitting.
Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Pradhan today and call us at (804) 270-3333. Early detection can protect your central vision and preserve your independence.
Your vision is precious. Let’s protect it—together.