Little known eye disease threatens vision of millions

MIDDLEBURY, CONNECTICUT January 23, 2008 - Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), is the leading cause of vision loss in people aged 55 and older. And, AMD affects the vision of more than 10 million Americans. Yet only 30 percent of Americans are familiar with the disease, according to a study by AMD Alliance International.

Research from Prevent Blindness America shows that AMD costs the United States economy $570 million annually, in direct costs for outpatient, inpatient and prescription drug services. Individually, the costs of outpatient services for AMD patients, between the ages of 40 and 64, are $305 per year, with an additional $110 in medications and vitamins.

AMD is a progressive disease that diminishes central vision. Over time, AMD patients must depend on their peripheral vision. There are two forms of AMD, "dry" and "wet." Dry AMD is the most common form of the disease and, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 90 percent of AMD patients have the dry form. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of dry AMD cases will progress to wet AMD.

Wet AMD occurs when fragile, abnormal blood vessels are formed under the macula and begin to leak fluid and blood. Scar tissue develops and destroys the macula, which leads to vision loss. Studies show that without treatment, those diagnosed with "wet" AMD will become functionally blind within two years.

"We are seeing some promising results from research studies around the world in regards to understanding AMD and the best methods to treat it," said Kathryn Garre-Ayars, Prevent Blindness Tri-State. "But even with the latest drug therapies, we are still waiting for a cure. Until that happens, the best way to save vision is through regular vision care with your eye care professional."

In order to educate the public and encourage Americans to visit their eye doctors, Prevent Blindness Tri-State has declared February as Age-related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month. The nonprofit group offers a free educational online resource, "The AMD Learning Center" at www.preventblindness.org/a md.

Prevent Blindness Tri- State Encourages Eye Exams to Prevent Vision Loss from AMD

Healthy habits can lead to healthy eyes. The risk of eye disease and vision loss can be lowered if you:

• Eat healthy foods high in antioxidants, such as green leafy vegetables, and foods high in zinc and beta carotene

• Avoid trans fats

• Quit smoking

• Control blood pressure and cholesterol

• Exercise regularly

• Visit your eye care professional on a regular basis

For free information on AMD, please call Prevent Blindness Tri-State at 1-800- 850-2020or visit www.preventblindnesstristat e.org.

About Prevent Blindness Tri-State-serving Connecticut, New York & New Jersey

Prevent Blindness Tri- State is a regional affiliate of Prevent Blindness America. Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness America is the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on promoting a continuum of vision care, we touch the lives of thousands of children and adults in the Tri-State area each year through public and professional education, advocacy, and certified vision screening training, community and patient service programs. For more information about this topic or our organization please call 800-850-2020 or check out our website www.preventblindnesstristat e.org