Prevention

Given that there is currently no cure for AMD and treatment options are limited to therapies to halt the progress of the condition prevention needs to be a key objective. Even though the precise causes of AMD remain unknown there are a number of risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of developing AMD.

Whether we are dealing with avoidable risk factors (such as smoking or poor diet) or unavoidable risk factors (such as increased age and genetic predisposition) it is essential to raise awareness in the general population so that people can make informed lifestyle choices.

Early Detection

Also, whether or not people fall in one of the high risk categories, a key message needs to be the importance of early detection. Wet AMD can lead to severe sight loss within as little as three months (anecdotal evidence suggests as little as a few days in some extreme cases). Early detection ensures that all treatment options remain available. Regular eye tests are therefore an absolute necessity.

To find out how you can spot first signs of AMD please go to the "Check your eyesight" page of this site. However, please note that only a trained professional can establish whether or not you have symptoms of AMD. So if in doubt, make an appointment with your eye doctor.