How Many People Globally Have Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

What are the Global Trends and Risk Group Demographics?

Global trends show a clear demographic profile for the disease. Prevalence increases sharply with age, with the risk rising from approximately 2 percent in the 50–59 age group to nearly 30 percent for those over the age of 75. The incidence of both early and late AMD is generally higher in individuals of European descent. AMD is also slightly more common in females than in males across all age groups.

What is the Difference Between Dry and Wet AMD Prevalence?

Dry AMD is the most common form, accounting for approximately 90 percent of all cases, and involves the slow atrophy (degeneration) of retinal cells. Wet AMD is less common (about 10 percent of cases) but is responsible for 90 percent of the severe, irreversible vision loss. Wet AMD is caused by the growth of abnormal, leaking blood vessels and requires urgent anti-VEGF injections. Early detection of the dry form is key to preventing progression to the damaging wet form.

What are the Major Preventable Risk Factors?

Major preventable risk factors include smoking, which significantly increases the risk of developing and progressing to the wet form. Diet is also a factor, with studies recommending diets rich in antioxidants, such as the AREDS 2 formula, to slow progression in specific patients. Consistent UV exposure throughout life is another contributing factor.

How Does AMD Impact Vision and Daily Life?

AMD severely impacts central vision, which is needed for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. The damage creates a blind spot (scotoma) or distortion in the center of the visual field. This loss severely affects independence, causing an increased risk of falls and reducing the ability to perform meaningful daily activities.

What are the Necessary Screening Procedures?

Necessary screening procedures include annual dilated fundus examinations for all adults over 50. Regular use of the Amsler grid at home helps patients monitor their vision for the wavy lines or central shadows that signal active disease progression.