Macular Degeneration - Can I Lower My Risk?

1 in 4 Australians Risk Losing Part or All of Their Vision to Eye Disease

Each year 1 in 4 Australians are at risk of losing part or all of their vision to eye disease. Despite the fact that 75% of vision loss is preventable or treatable, 2 out of 5 Australians are still not having their eyes tested at least once every two years, according to the latest Newspoll1 commissioned by The RANZCO Eye Foundation as part of its annual 'JulEYE' campaign.

Can I lower my risk of developing macular degeneration?

Although family history and age cannot be changed, there are some things you can do to help reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration.

Reduce the Risk

You can't change your genes or your age but you may reduce the risk of macular degeneration or slow down the progression of the disease by making positive diet and lifestyle changes.

• Have an eye test and make sure the macula is checked
• Don't smoke
• Keep a healthy lifestyle, control weight and exercise regularly
• Eat a healthy well-balanced diet
• Eat fish two to three times a week, dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit daily, and a handful of nuts a week. Limit the intake of fats and oils
• Choose low glycemic index (GI) carbohydrates instead of high GI whenever possible
• In consultation with your doctor or optometrist, consider a suitable supplement
• Use an Amsler grid regularly to check for symptoms of macular degeneration
• Provide adequate protection for your eyes from sunlight exposure, including for those who are very young