News & Updates

February marks Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on this condition impacting millions worldwide. With prevalence rates ranging from 1.2% to 4.7% in India alone among individuals over 40, understanding AMD becomes paramount.

What Exactly is AMD?

Age-related macular Degeneration (AMD) is a condition characterized by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, primarily due to aging. This leads to vision loss in the central visual field, affecting activities like reading, cooking, and driving while preserving peripheral vision.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms of AMD may not be immediately noticeable, often progressing gradually or affecting both eyes. Challenges with central vision tasks, distorted or missing lines, dimmed vision in low light, and difficulty recognizing faces are common indicators.

Key Facts for Prevention

Taking proactive steps to prevent AMD is crucial. Here are some key insights:

1. Shield Your Eyes: UV-A radiation from sunlight contributes to oxidative damage in the retina, leading to AMD. Consistently wearing sunglasses when outdoors helps mitigate this risk.
2. Embrace a Healthy Diet: Obesity and high cholesterol are linked to AMD progression. Adopting a Mediterranean diet rich in antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, and legumes can slow down its advancement.
3. Gender Disparities: While AMD isn't gender-exclusive, studies show a higher prevalence among women. Understanding this discrepancy aids in tailored prevention strategies.
4. Kick the Habit: Smokers face significantly higher risks of developing AMD. Quitting smoking drastically reduces this risk.
5. Stay Active: Regular physical activity correlates with decreased chances of AMD onset and progression. Incorporating exercise into your routine is beneficial for eye health.
6. Regular Eye Checkups: Early detection is key. Routine visits to your Ophthalmologist, in-person or virtually, facilitate early screening and better long-term management.

Exploring Genetic Insights

Genetic testing, like MyDNA Gene Proactive, offers a proactive approach to understanding individual susceptibility to AMD. Post-test consultations with genetic counselors ensure comprehensive comprehension of results and potential risks.

While there's no cure for AMD, early detection, lifestyle modifications, and personalized care can effectively manage symptoms and slow progression.

For those seeking proactive measures against AMD, MyDNA Gene Proactive provides invaluable genetic insights. To learn more about this groundbreaking test, visit our website at mydna.lordsmicrobiotech.com

By raising awareness and embracing preventive measures, we can collectively combat AMD and safeguard our vision for years to come.

This blog is brought to you by MyDNA, your trusted partner in preventive healthcare and genetic wellness.