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Published April 2000
(NAPS) - According to The Foundation Fighting Blindness, more than 6 million Americans have age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Another estimated 9 million may have early signs of the disease that could lead to vision loss.
Macular degeneration is a progressive loss of central vision and is the leading cause of legal blindness in Americans over 50. Many affected by AMD are unable to read a book, drive a car, or even see the faces of loved ones.
AMD occurs when the center of the retina begins to deteriorate. The condition can cause blurring of central vision, distortion and blind spots. Blurred central vision can make straight lines appear slightly distorted or warped.
Although the exact cause of AMD is unclear, some studies suggest that genetic factors play a role. Other factors include smoking and possibly high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and sun exposure.
While there are some limited treatment options available, to date there is no known cure or lasting treatment for AMD.
The Foundation Fighting Blindness funds the research that will discover the causes, treatments, cures and preventative methods for AMD.
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You are not alone | Come and get it | Then and now
Small blessings | Fun pages | Advertising | Helpful links | About Us
© Copyright 2002 Home Front Magazine. All rights reserved.
Hosting by FN Publishing