What is macular degeneration?

Last updated: June 9 2023

The words 'macula,' 'AMD' or 'retina' might sound familiar to you.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic and painless disease of the macula. This is significant because the macula is responsible for detailed central vision. When the macula is compromised things such as reading, recognising faces and driving are affected.

In Australia, about one in seven Australians over the age of 50 years have some evidence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

For some people, AMD advances very slowly and may not impact vision. For others, AMD may progress faster and lead to vision loss in one or both eyes.

Early detection of age-related macular degeneration is crucial to saving sight. AMD in the early stages can be diagnosed through an eye examination, including a check of the macula. This can be done by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Have you had an eye test recently?