Foresight joins global effort during AMD week to address lack of understanding about age-related macular degeneration

Ophthalmologists consider AMD to be a major cause of blindness in the Gulf region. An aging population and lifestyle factors such as poor diet and smoking means that many are affected by deteriorating vision loss as a result. Patients are not aware of the importance of early diagnosis in effectively treating the disease.

"We need much more awareness about the importance of regular eye checks, particularly for people over the age of 50. One of the reasons that make AMD a major cause for blindness in our region is late diagnosis, unlike in the western world, patients in our region often seek medical advice in the late stages of the disease. Too many people simply do not understand the risk factors that lead to AMD, as well as the preventive strategies that can be employed to halt or slow the advance of vision loss that occurs as a result of the disease."

said Dr Manal Taryam, President of Medical Association Ophthalmic Society.

"The most critical message is that everyone over the age of 50 must see an eye doctor twice yearly, even if their vision seems perfect," said Dr Manal. "Early detection is the most important factor in preventing or slowing the advance of AMD. It is also recommended that individuals in our region should protect their eyes from direct sun light and enjoy a healthy life style with a balanced diet that is rich in anti oxidants, Omega 3, and Zinc."

In addition to regular eye exams, people can make changes to their nutrition and lifestyle to help prevent or slow macular degeneration:

Eat dark green, leafy vegetables - foods rich in vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids (including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) - may delay or reduce the severity of AMD. Examples include arugula, broccoli, collard greens, kale, spinach and swiss chard.

Avoid foods that are high in fats and cholesterol, as these can lead to fatty deposits in the macular vessels which can hamper blood flow and increase the risk of AMD.

Eat fish regularly. New research suggests that Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as tuna and salmon may protect against the progression of AMD.

Include nuts and olive oil in your diet, as these also contain Omega-3 fatty acids and have shown to be protective.

Don't smoke. In addition to the role of diet, research has shown that AMD is two to three times more likely to occur among tobacco smokers; and, the risk is dose dependent. In other words, the more you smoke, the greater the risk and the faster the progression of the disease.

Understand your risk factors in terms of lifestyle and family history. There may be a genetic link in the occurrence of AMD. Other risk factors include age, exposure to sunlight, obesity, lack of exercise, and hypertension.

During AMD Week, September 19-27, 2009, Foresight and AMD Alliance International are launching a series of global initiatives and communications strategies to increase awareness of AMD among the general public including:

• Foresight is stressing the importance of protecting your vision and having regular eye checks through a raft of communications.

• AMDAI is inviting all filmmakers to enter its first short film/video contest with a Grand Prize. People all over the world are invited to submit videos in English or with English subtitles no longer than three minutes in length. The video should help create an understanding and awareness of macular degeneration. Entries will be accepted through January 31, 2009.

• Distribution of a viral campaign with a test for AMD. AMD Alliance International has created a short video that it will disseminate to its members, the media and the general public that provides a quick and easy test for the early signs of macular degeneration.

"One must understand not only that AMD can be avoided by addressing risk factors such as diet, lifestyle and family history, but that even after the onset, the advance of blindness can be slowed," Hamilton said. "These key pieces of knowledge can save the vision of millions of people, and that is what makes this campaign during AMD Week so critical."