It is estimated that more than 2 million people age 50 and older have late Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) which represents a 25 percent increase over the past decade. “It’s no surprise that the number of people affected by macular degeneration is continuing to climb, especially due to the aging baby boomer population,” said Marc Michelson, M.D. of Alabama Eye &Cataract Center in Birmingham. “In the past, we were pretty much only able to give patients with Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) bad news about their vision and prognosis. Today, for most patients, with early detection, diagnosis and treatment, at a minimum we can prevent further vision loss from the disease and in many cases we can actually help recover lost vision,” said Dr. Michelson.
“The key to preventing vision loss from AMD is early detection, quick diagnosis and then immediate access to treatment with vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (VEGF) injections such as Lucentis® and Eylea®. What patients need to be aware of is that once you are over 50, it becomes increasingly important to have a thorough, comprehensive dilated eye exam every one to two years-and even more often if you have any family history of AMD or at the recommendation of your eye doctor,” summarized Dr. Michelson.
If you or someone you know is concerned about the risk of glaucoma and need a glaucoma eye exam they are encouraged to schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.
Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye &Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.
