Eyes are a gift from God, however, surprisingly the risk of diseases related to this organ is increasing rapidly with time. If we take a look at the statistics of eye diseases in the past decade, we can see that children are also increasingly falling victim to them. From weak eyesight at a young age to the need for spectacles and with increasing age, the risk of problems like reduced vision and cataracts is increasing.
Health experts have expressed serious concern in a recently released report regarding the risks of eye-related diseases. Experts said that the way our lifestyle is getting disturbed, there is a possibility that by the year 2040, more than 300 million (30 crores) people may be at risk of 'Age-Related Macular Degeneration'.
At present, more than 20 crore people around the world are victims of this problem. Age-related macular degeneration is considered to be the leading cause of vision loss or serious eye-related diseases as we age.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe, permanent vision loss in people over the age of 50. This happens when the central part of your retina (called the macula) gets damaged. The retina is the light-focusing tissue at the back of your eye. This disease occurs with increasing age, hence it is called age-related macular degeneration. It does not usually cause blindness but can cause serious vision problems.
Due to AMD, it becomes difficult for the eyes to form images with time.
What do ophthalmologists say?
Ophthalmologist Marco Alejandro Gonzalez says many reasons have been found responsible for the problem of AMD. Whether or not it will affect you is mostly determined by age and genetics. It is considered very important to understand the symptoms and causes of this eye-related disease and make efforts to prevent this disorder from an early age.
Experts aren't sure why some people develop AMD and others don't. Some studies have found that your genes and certain environmental conditions may cause its development.
Who is at greater risk of age-related macular degeneration?
The team of health experts said that the risk of age-related macular degeneration is higher in some people, so it is important to be careful by knowing your risk factors.
Researchers said that conditions like smoking, suffering from high blood pressure or cholesterol problems, consuming too much-saturated fat, and obesity can increase the risk of this eye disease. It is important to note here that there is no cure for AMD. Some measures can be taken to reduce its symptoms.
How can we prevent this disease?
Health experts say, that by adopting some healthy habits from an early age, you can reduce the risks of this eye-related problem in the future. It cannot be prevented in people who have genetic disorders. If you smoke, quitting may be one way to prevent AMD, health experts say. Take care of any other health conditions like high blood pressure, keep your weight under control and exercise regularly. These daily habits can help keep the eyes healthy for a long time.
Some changes in the diet such as including fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids (which are found in certain types of fish and nuts) in the diet can keep the eyes healthy.
(PC: ISTOCK)
