Macular degeneration affects the eyesight of millions. Also called AMD, it is known for causing blurred central vision due to damage to the macula – a small area at the back of the eye. Currently, there is no cure. Age is a known risk factor that eye care professions often use to determine a patient’s likelihood of developing AMD. The disease is most likely to occur after age 60, according to the National Eye Institute.
“People who had more birthdays are the ones more susceptible”, says Julie Rosenthal, M.D., a Kellogg Eye Center retina specialist. It’s also more common in women and whites.” Dr. Rosenthal shared some healthy habits to help prevent AMD: quit smoking, know your family history, eat leafy greens, take supplements, wear sunglasses, test yourself with an Amsler grid, maintain a healthy blood pressure and weight.