AMD is a degeneration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, central vision needed to read or drive. Because the macula is predominately affected in AMD, central vision loss may occur. It rarely leads to complete blindness because only the central vision is affected. (Reference 3.)
AMD is the most common cause of poor sight in people over 60. (Reference 3.) It commonly affects people over 50. Around 30% of people over 75 have early signs of AMD, and about 7% have more advanced AMD. (Reference 4.)
The exact cause of AMD is not known. However, a number of environmental factors are known, in particular cigarette smoking. (Reference 6.)
AMD occurs in two forms: wet (neovascular) and dry (non-neovascular). In dry AMD, there is extensive atrophy of cells that progresses slowly, whereas the wet form can lead to a rapid worsening of vision. About 85-90% of all diagnosed AMD cases are dry AMD. (Reference 3.)
See our Prevention section for information about preventing AMD.
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