Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that affects the macula, which is located in the centre of retina. The retina is responsible for converting light or any image into electrical impulses and then sends as signal to the brain. It is how we are able to see the objects clearly and have a central vision for daily activities such as reading and driving. AMD gradually destroys this sharp, central vision; however the process is painless and so gradual that we notice little change in the vision.

However there are certain cases reported in which AMD progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. It is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.

The eye surgeons in America are trying to explore the role played by nutrition, genetic factors and immune response in addition to AMD in affecting the center vision which we need to we need to read, drive, recognize faces and enjoy daily life. They are trying to come up with new clues and preventive measures to control the occurrence of AMD. The need to promote awareness is also stressed upon. The best solution to preserve the vision still lies in the early detection of the problem. People need to be aware of the risks to save their sight.

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