TORONTO, Sept 17, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- AMD Alliance International reports study results during AMD Awareness Week; Cites need for people to visit eye doctors more regularly

While age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in those over 50 and affects more than 10 million Americans, a study conducted by the AMD Alliance International (AMDAI) reveals that a lack of knowledge and concern are preventing people from taking critical steps that can halt or slow the disease's progression.

The study is being released in conjunction with AMD Week, September 21-27, 2008.

The research reports that among those at high-risk of losing their sight from AMD, only about half (56 percent) reported seeing an eye doctor once a year or more, as is recommended.

AMD ranked lowest among a list of conditions "likely to affect the aging population" when respondents were asked how much they know about them.

And, according to the study, nearly 90 percent of the general population will visit an eye doctor after noticing symptoms such as loss of vision or blurriness, but by then it may be too late to take advantage of strategies that are employed prior to the onset of AMD.

However, when identified early, the progression of AMD can be slowed or halted with a variety of treatments prescribed by doctors and lifestyle modifications such as a diet rich in leafy green vegetables and quitting smoking.

What should people do?

Everyone needs to understand his or her own individual risk of being diagnosed with AMD. Risk factors are explained at www.amdalliance.org. Those at high risk of getting AMD should see an eye doctor regularly. For those over the age of 50 or at high-risk of getting AMD, that means yearly eye exams.

In addition, anyone with questions about whether they have the risk factors for AMD can take the AMD Challenge at:

http://www.amdalliance.org/resources/amdchallenge.php

AMDAI has also provided these five questions that everyone over the age of 50 should be asking their eye doctors:

1. What is AMD and what are the factors that determine who is at highest risk?

2. What symptoms should I watch for and how should I notify you if they occur?

3. What causes AMD and can the condition be treated?

4. How does this condition affect vision?

5. Will getting AMD affect my lifestyle?

"This study clearly indicates that there is a low level of concern about AMD and many people aren't seeking adequate eye care until the disease has reached more of an advanced stage," says David Herman, Chair AMDI. "It is imperative for people to see their eye doctors regularly and understand their risk factors so that AMD can be halted or its progression can be slowed.

In addition to legal blindness, AMD impacts quality of life and often leads to depression. And while the causes of AMD are complex, several factors have been identified that appear to increase the risk, including gender, age, genetics, smoking, nutrition, hypertension, sun exposure, light skin or eye color and severe farsightedness.

To learn more about AMD, its risk factors, and prevention and treatment options please visit www.amdalliance.org.

About AMD Alliance International

AMD Alliance International is the only international organization in the world dedicated exclusively to promoting awareness, treatment and research into macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss in the developed world. With 60 members in 22 countries, we are a membership organization comprised of the worlds' leading vision and research organizations. For more information, visit www.amdalliance.org.

SOURCE AMD Alliance International

URL: www.amdalliance.org www.prnewswire.com

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