What is the Macula?

The macula is made up of million of light-sensing cells that provide sharp, central vision. It is the most sensitive part of the retina. It is located at the back of the eye. The retina turns light into electrical signals and then sends these electrical signals through the optic nerve to the brain. There they are translated into images that we see.

What You Should Know….

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older. It is caused by damage to the macula. This can result in blurred, dark and distorted vision.

In some people, AMD advances slowly so vision loss does not occur for a long time. In other cases, the disease causes damage much faster and can lead to vision loss in one or both eyes.

Who is at Risk?

Age is a big factor for AMD. The disease is more likely to occur after the age of 60.

Other risk factors include:

• Smoking- Research has proven that smoking doubles the risk for AMD.
  
• Race- ADM is more common among Caucasians then African Americans or Hispanic/Latinos.
• Family History- People with a family history are at higher risk.
• Obesity-  Being severely overweight increases the chance of developing AMD.