Prevent Blindness AmericaDeclares June 3-9 as “AMD: Awareness Makes a Difference Week” In Effort to Educate Public on Leading Eye Disease
Non-profit Organization to Support Educational Efforts Across the Country on Age-related Macular Degeneration, the Leading Cause of Blindness in Older Americans
CHICAGO (May 29, 2013) –Today, more than 2 million Americans have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), according to the 2012 “Vision Problems in the U.S.” report from Prevent Blindness America. AMD is an eye disease that causes central vision to deteriorate over time, making simple activities such as driving and reading increasingly difficult. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for AMD.
The good news is that with early detection through a dilated eye exam, and treatment, vision can be preserved. Prevent Blindness America is joining with its affiliates and partners to promote the national “AMD: Awareness Makes a Difference” program to educate adults on the disease and the steps that can be taken today, including regular eye exams, to protect vision in the future.
As part of the program, Prevent Blindness America will be offering a free magnetic Amsler grid, while quantities last, that can be placed on refrigerators, medicine cabinets, etc. An Amsler grid is a grid of horizontal and vertical lines used to monitor a person's central version. If the lines appear wavy, distorted, or missing, it may be a sign of eye disease such as AMD. An appointment should be made with an eye doctor immediately.
“AMD is the leading cause of blindness in Americans ages 50 and older,”saidHugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “By providing those in our community with the information they need about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, our goal is to help keep the eyes healthy well into the future.”
For more information on the AMD: Awareness Makes a Difference event, or general information on AMD, or to request a free magnetic Amsler grid, please visit the Prevent Blindness America website at preventblindness.org/amd or call (800) 331-2020.
Download a copy of the AMD – Awareness Makes a Difference Week press release.