The progressive deterioration of the Macula or the central portion of the retina causes macular degeneration. The macula is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye (ability to see objects directly in front) and for processing sharp, clear images. Macular degeneration or damage to the macula results in the development of blind spots and distorted vision. Macular degeneration is a common eye disease affecting more than 10 million Americans. Macular Degeneration rarely results in complete blindness but leads to uneven, blurred or distorted vision and reduces contrast sensitivity and color perception. Peripheral vision may not be affected and victims may be able to see from the corners of their eyes. However, in the worst cases, Macular Degeneration may result in a complete loss of vision or lead to legal blindness. There is no conclusive theory to the specific factors that cause macular degeneration. It is a well-known fact that macular degeneration occurs mainly because of aging. However, researchers and investigators suspect an association between development of Macular Degeneration and occurrence of a variant of a gene known as complement factor H (CFH). Almost half of all potentially blinding cases of macular degeneration have been found to be associated with this gene deficiency. The cause of this eye disease may also be related to nutrition, smoking, and sunlight or as a side effect of a particular drug. Macular Degeneration is incurable and generally affects people in their 50s or 60s. Recent studies indicated that 35% of people aged 75 years or more may have the eye disease. Dr. Carl Kupfer, the former Director of the National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, stated that this eye disease will soon take on aspects of an epidemic, back in 1997. However, with the advance in medicine and technology, there have been new treatments made available for Macular Degeneration patients. Special devices and training have also been devised, which could greatly assist victims of this eye disease. |
