Delaying AMD progression
Early detection and intervention are key to preventing or delaying vision loss
Certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of AMD in patients2
• Lifelong UV protection and smoking cessation
• Maintaining a healthy diet and routine exercise
• Keeping blood pressure in control and reducing the intake of fatty foods
• A diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
• Routine eye exams for early detection and prevention
Treatment of AMD
In the early stages of AMD, treatment options include dietary supplements with the AREDS2 formula, self-monitoring of vision at home with an Amsler grid, and routine eye exams to monitor for progression.2
Treatment of wet AMD may be managed with the use of laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and anti-VEGF therapy, either individually or in combination.3,5
References:
1. Age-related macular degeneration. National Eye Institute. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/age-related-macular-degeneration.
2. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Canadian association of optometrists. Available at: https://opto.ca/eye-health-library/age-related-macular-degeneration-amd.
3. Cruess A, et al. Canadian expert consensus: optimal treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Can J Ophthalmol 2012;47:227-335.
4. Cruess A, et al. The treatment of wet AMD in Canada: access to therapy (policy review). Can J Opthalmol 2009:44;548-556.
5. Age-related macular degeneration. American Society of Retina Specialists. Available at: https://www.asrs.org/patients/retinal-diseases/2/agerelated-macular-degeneration.
