Retinitis Pigmentosa - Macular Degeneration

Information on Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration is the name given to certain conditions affecting the retina which causes loss of central vision. The macula is the small central part of the retina of the eye and it plays a critical role in vision. Millions of people throughout the world have been diagnosed with Age related Macular Degeneration, which is the leading cause of legal blindness in people over the age of 60. Early or juvenile onset Macular Degeneration is much less common.

Macular Degeneration, and several other diseases, that are characterised by degeneration of some portion of the retina, are difficult diseases to describe because they occur in many variations, and progress at different rates for different people. This information has been prepared by the Retina South Africa in order to generally explain Macular Degeneration to people who have the condition, to their families, and to other interested individuals.

If you or someone you know has Macular Degeneration, you may feel confused about what this means and uncertain or frightened by what the future may hold for you.

There has been much progress made in understanding Macular Degeneration in people of all ages over the past 20 years. The International Retina movement began in 1971 with the mission of finding a cure, treatment and ultimately prevention for retinal degenerative diseases, including Macular Degeneration. The recent explosion of research findings has underscored the correlations among retinal degenerative diseases and it is now believed that the methodologies for finding treatments and cures for various forms of other retinal degenerations apply to Macular Degeneration as well.

The information on this website will answer many of your questions, but it is important to remember that the general descriptions given can provide only an introduction to the subject. If you suspect that you have Macular Degeneration, or any other eye condition, you should consult a knowledgeable eye care professional. Only by knowing the full details of an individual's vision via a physical eye examination and family history, can the nature and progress of the condition be understood, it’s full meaning explained and appropriate treatment determined.