Macular Degeneration
Global Impact, Global Goals
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, affects 25 to 30 million people worldwide. It is a leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Due to advances in overall healthcare, the percentage of people over the age of 65 across the globe continues to grow - contributing to the growth of AMD as a world problem.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
While there are some forms of macular degeneration that are hereditary and can occur at any age, most cases affect the elderly. Age-related macular degeneration exists in two forms: nonexudative or "dry" and exudative or "wet." As much as 90 percent of AMD cases are comprised of dry macular degeneration - a condition where fatty tissue slowly builds up behind the retina and causes a gradual loss of visual acuity. A leakage of blood and other fluid from behind the retina and into the layers of the retina is known as wet AMD. Often a later phase of dry AMD, wet AMD can progress far more rapidly and may cause more damage to the eye. Thus, the vision loss for someone suffering from wet AMD is often very rapid and dramatic, while patients who suffer from dry AMD will experience a slow but noticeable decrease in their ability to see sharply.
The Alcon Difference
While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are attempts being made to slow or halt the progression of the disease. Many companies are exploring options such as surgical procedures and pharmaceutical treatments.
A serious world problem that continues to grow, AMD may someday be brought into check - offering a brighter future for our aging population. Alcon remains focused on doing what we can to contribute to this goal.
