MCG Recognizes Low Vision Awareness Month

Augusta, Ga. -- Imagine picking up a book and trying to read it, only to find that the words in the middle of the page are blurred and out of focus. Or trying to drive when you can't see out the windshield.

For the 12 million Americans who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration, this is how they live their lives. Also known as low vision, macular degeneration usually affects those 55 and older and is caused when the macula, a spot on the retina where light is focused, begins to break down. Dry macular degeneration, caused when waste deposits build up on the retina, is a less severe form of the disease, but may lead to wet or advanced macular degeneration, caused when abnormal blood vessels grow behind the retina and begin to leak.

Those who suffer from wet macular degeneration do not go blind, but their central sight becomes blurry or is obscured by dark spots. Only peripheral vision is maintained, making it very difficult to accomplish normal, everyday tasks such as reading, driving or even pursuing favorite pastimes such as putting together a jigsaw puzzle or squeezing in 18 holes of golf.

Unfortunately, glasses don't help. There is no cure for macular degeneration, although there have been some proven results through laser surgery and photodynamic therapy, which may help to preserve vision for those with wet macular degeneration.

It's important that those at risk of developing macular degeneration examine their lifestyles and make choices to reduce the risk of losing their sight. "We can't keep people from aging, but there are ways of reducing your risk for developing macular degeneration," said Dr. Dennis Marcus, a vitreo-retinal surgeon at MCG Health System who specializes in the disorder.

According to the Macular Degeneration Partnership, a non-profit organization made up of caregivers and patients, there are a number of risk factors for macular degeneration:

• Age. Those 55 and older have a greater risk of developing macular degeneration, and this risk increases as you grow older.
  Gender. Women are more likely to develop macular degeneration than men, perhaps due to the fact they live longer.
  Pigmentation. Those who are light-skinned or have blue eyes are more likely to develop macular degeneration.
  Other eye problems. Those who are extremely farsighted or already have macular degeneration in one eye are at greater risk.
  Genetics. A family history of macular degeneration can mean a greater risk for the disease.
  Those who fall into these categories can take action to lower their risk of developing macular degeneration, according to Dr. Marcus.
  
• Quit smoking. "Smoking is a major risk factor, but one that can be controlled," said Dr. Marcus.
  Lower your blood pressure. There may be a link between high blood pressure and macular degeneration.
  Stay out of the sun. Reduce your exposure to sunlight's harmful UV rays by wearing protective clothing such as hats or visors and by wearing quality sunglasses with UV protection. This will definitely reduce cataract risk and may benefit macular degeneration.
  Eat right. A healthy, well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and high in fruits and vegetables is recommended. In particular, green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale and bright-colored fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants have been found to be beneficial to those at risk or suffering from macular degeneration. Dr. Marcus especially recommends supplementing your diet with vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and zinc. (Those who smoke, however, should avoid beta-carotene as it can cause an increased risk of lung cancer.)
  
• A yearly checkup with an ophthalmologist is also a good idea, particularly as you grow older. "February is Low Vision Awareness Month," said Dr. Marcus. "If you are at risk for developing this disease, and haven't visited your eye doctor lately, set up an appointment today and take a step toward protecting your sight for tomorrow.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.