10 Facts About Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Singapore

As Singapore’s population continues to age, age related macular degeneration has risen as a major public health problem. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss among people over age 50, and it is becoming more of a concern in the country due to increased life expectancy. For as long as medical science has come, there is still no cure for AMD. Although it is a difficult disease to confront, understanding the condition and the associated risk factors and available treatments can help manage eye health. The following are the top 10 things you need to know about Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Singapore.

1. Prevalence of AMD in Singapore

AMD is a very common condition in Singapore, especially among the elderly. Almost 10% of the population above 60 years old is afflicted, and it will become a major concern in an ageing society. As the population in Singapore continues to age, so does the prevalence of AMD; hence, the importance of early detection and management.

2. Types of AMD: Dry vs. Wet

There are mainly two types of AMD: dry and wet. The dry form is more common, comprising about 85-90% of the cases. It is characterised by the gradual thinning of the macula, leading to a slow loss of central vision. The wet form, though less common, is far more serious. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, causing rapid and significant loss of vision. Both forms are seen in Singapore, where wet AMD is a common cause of severe visual loss.

3. Risk Factors for AMD

A number of risk factors predispose one to AMD. Of course, the most marked one is age, since the risk increases with an increase in age. The others are genetics, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and exposure to sunlight for an extremely long period. In Singapore, with a rapidly ageing population and lifestyle factors such as smoking and diet, the incidence of AMD is on the rise.

4. Symptoms of AMD

These symptoms of AMD are so subtle in the early stages that they become noticeable when the disease has really developed. Overall common symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty recognizing faces, dark or empty areas in the centre of vision, and distortion where straight lines appear wavy. If any of these symptoms are experienced, one is expected to immediately seek the advice of an eye specialist.

5. The Amsler Grid Test

The Amsler Grid Test is the most available and, at the same time, efficient method of macula monitoring in cases of risk or, on the contrary, early stage of AMD. Looking at a grid of horizontal and vertical lines is included in this test. For healthy vision, the lines must appear straight and even. In the case of AMD, some lines may appear wavy or missing. The Amsler Grid, if used regularly, can facilitate early detection of changes in vision for effective medical interventions.

6. Impact on Daily Life

AMD is an eye disease that involves the macula, or the part of the retina responsible for acute central vision. Central vision allows individuals to see fine details, so loss of central vision can make it difficult to read, drive, or even recognize faces, among other activities. The disease, though, generally leaves peripheral vision intact, which means at least some degree of independence can be maintained even if central vision is lost.

7. Treatment Options in Singapore

While there is no cure, various options for treating AMD exist, which can help slow down its development and minimise the symptoms. Regarding dry AMD, certain lifestyle changes can encourage a healthy way of combating the disease by inculcating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables with omega-3 fatty acids, not smoking, and maintaining blood pressure within normal limits. The line of treatment for Wet AMD includes Anti-VEGF Injections, Laser Therapy, and Photodynamic Therapy. Such macular edema treatment is easily available in Singapore, including but not limited to specialised clinics such as Dr Natasha Lim Eye Centre.

8. Low Vision Aids

People with advanced AMD can benefit a lot from the use of low-vision aids. These aids include magnifying glasses, highly contrast paper and reading materials as well as electronic devices that magnify the written text. In Singapore, one can find many resources or services that can help people with low vision. It is essential that they can still maintain independent living and do activities of daily living with ease.

9. Preventive Measures

Addressing the modifiable risk factors is necessary for the prevention of AMD or slowing of the disease process. Awareness campaigns in Singapore focus on healthy dieting, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. Other ways to minimise risks for AMD include wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays and managing chronic conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol.

10. The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations

Above all, early detection and diagnosis of AMD is paramount. For people over 50 years, eye checks are the order of the day, for genetics has a major role to play in this disease. In Singapore, such eye checks are easily accessible and can pick up early signs of the disease far before any significant loss of vision. Through such means, disease at a progressive condition may be dealt with more effectively or averted totally.

Conclusion

Age related macular degeneration is an increasingly significant concern with the greying of the population in Singapore. Understanding facts concerning risk factors, symptoms, and treatment can be quite helpful. Eye check-ups, healthy living, and early intervention represent the most important help regarding AMD and maintaining quality of life at an optimum. If you or a loved one is in jeopardy, it would be wise to consult an eye specialist like Dr. Natasha Lim to find the best means of preserving your vision.