Aging Americans Need AMD Education

Optometric Management, Jun 2006

BETTY WHITE LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN

According to Prevent Blindness America, a new survey shows that only 55% of those over age 65 are aware of wet AMD. In addition, only 10% of the same age group knew that vision can deteriorate rapidly with wet AMD.

In response, Prevent Blindness America and the Macular Degeneration Partnership have sponsored "My Eye Health: In the Wink of an Eye," a national campaign to educate Americans about AMD. The campaign, which received funding from OSI Eyetech and Pfizer Ophthalmics, features actress Betty White, who discusses the importance of early detection and treatment. About 15 million Americans - almost one in four over the age of 50 - have AMD. More than half of adults aged 65 and older did not know that there are treatment options available for wet AMD.

The My Eye Health campaign will educate the public about signs and symptoms of wet AMD. In addition, patients can receive free copies of the Amsler grid along with instructions on how to use it through www.myeyehealth.org or by calling (866) 702-EYES (866-702-3937).

The study results and the campaign are both signs that optometrists have a tremendous opportunity to educate patients in the area of AMD.