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You go to the doctor, the dentist, the gym, the hairdresser, but when was the last time you had an eye examination?
Regular eye checks are important for all ages but if you are over 50 they could save you from the devastating effects of Age-related Macular Degeneration. As part of AMD week we hope you will read these short articles on ways you can look after your sight, whether you are under or over 50.
Katy Newitt – ChairwomanForesight
Alarming lack of understanding about AMD
Regular eye exams urged to save vision
Though it is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50 and effects 25-30 million people in the western world, Age-related Macular Degeneration remains a condition that is often little understood by even those who are at high risk of developing the disease.
"We need much more awareness about the importance of regular eye checks, particularly for people over the age of 50," said Dr Manal Taryam, President of the Emirates Medical Association Ophthalmic Society. "One of the reasons that make AMD a major cause for blindness in our region is late diagnosis. Unlike in the western world, patients in our region often seek medical advice in the late stages of the disease. Too many people simply do not understand the risk factors that lead to AMD, as well as the preventive strategies that can be employed to halt or slow the advance of vision loss that occurs as a result of the disease."
"The most critical message is that everyone over the age of 50 must see an eye doctor twice yearly, even if their vision seems perfect," said Dr Manal. "Early detection is the most important factor in preventing or slowing the advance of AMD. It is also recommended that individuals in our region should protect their eyes from direct sun light and enjoy a healthy life style with a balanced diet that is rich in anti oxidants, Omega 3, and Zinc."
For more information about AMD visit www.foresightrp.com
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What you can do to save your sight.
Book an eye examination and have one regularly. Annual checks are recommended if you are over 50.
In addition to regular eye exams, you can make changes to your nutrition and lifestyle to help prevent or slow macular degeneration:
Eat dark green, leafy vegetables - foods rich in vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids (including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) - may delay or reduce the severity of AMD. Examples include arugula, broccoli, collard greens, kale, spinach and swiss chard.
Avoid foods that are high in fats and cholesterol, as these can lead to fatty deposits in the macular vessels which can hamper blood flow and increase the risk of AMD.
Eat fish regularly. New research suggests that Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as tuna and salmon may protect against the progression of AMD.
Include nuts and olive oil in your diet, as these also contain Omega-3 fatty acids and have shown to be protective.
Don’t smoke. In addition to the role of diet, research has shown that AMD is two to three times more likely to occur among tobacco smokers; and, the risk is dose dependent. In other words, the more you smoke, the greater the risk and the faster the progression of the disease.
Understand your risk factors in terms of lifestyle and family history. There may be a genetic link in the occurrence of AMD. Other risk factors include age, exposure to sunlight, obesity, lack of exercise, and hypertension.
Wear sunglasses. A good pair of shades can help prevent damage from harmful UV rays.
About Foresight – Help us to fight blindness. Support research into a cure for retinal diseases and improve the lives of people who are visually impaired in the UAE. www.foresightrp.com
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