Macular degeneration

Is anything more precious than our sight?

Macular Degeneration (MD) is the leading cause of blindness in Australia, affecting central vision. MD is primarily age related and most frequently affects people over the age of 50. One in seven people over the age of 50 are affected by the disease and the incidence increases with age. It is sometimes referred to as Age Related Macular Degeneration or 'AMD'.

Reduce the Risk

There are some positive lifestyle steps that can be followed that may help to reduce the risk of MD or help to slow down the progression of MD.
 

Eye Health Checklist**

You can't change your genes or your age but you may reduce the risk of MD or slow down the progression of the disease, by making positive diet and lifestyle changes:

• Have your eyes tested and make sure the macula is checked.
• Don't smoke.
• Keep a healthy lifestyle, control your weight and exercise regularly.
• Eat a healthy well-balanced diet:
  • Limit your intake of fats
  • Eat fish two to three times a week
  • Eat dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit daily
  • Eat a handful of nuts each week
• In consultation with you doctor, consider taking a zinc and antioxidant supplement.
• Provide adequate protection for your eyes from sunlight exposure, especially when young.

** Any changes in diet or lifestyle should be undertaken in consultation with your doctor.
Mdfoundation.com.au website is designed to promote awareness of Macular Degeneration and features a wide array of information and resources. The site offers a text only version for people with vision impairment. It is compatible with Jaws and other reading programs. There is also the added option of increasing the font size on each page.
Click this link to keep informed on the latest MD research mdfoundation.com.au

Courtesy of the macular degeneration foundation. For more information or to make a donation click www.mdfoundation.com.au