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Patient Education: Diseases Conditions Treatments & Procedures

Macular Degeneration

Introduction

Macular degeneration (AMD), is a chronic, age-related degenerative disease of the macula, the very small and specialized area in the centre of the retina that allows us to see fine details directly in front of us like words in a book. There are two types of AMD – wet and dry. Dry AMD generally progresses slowly and is usually less severe than wet AMD.

 

Risk factors include age, family history and gender (females are more susceptible).

 

Cutting out smoking, getting your blood pressure under control and managing a healthy weight are all risk factors that can be controlled and can aid in prevention.