The following was written by Bill Evans and published in the Coolum and North Shore News, Ask the Professionals page on Friday, 28th May 2010.
Q: How can I prevent Macular Degeneration?
A: This week, Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, is an important time to think about your eye health. Macular Degeneration (MD) is the leading cause of blindness in Australia and affects one in seven Australians over the age of 50. I recommend all local residents who are over 50 to take the time to have an eye test, which should include having their macula checked. UV protection may play an important role in preventing MD, so protect your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses and a hat. Quitting smoking and lowering your cholesterol have been shown to help slow the progression and even prevent certain types of MD. A good diet can definitely help prevent MD; take a look at the article Healthy eating for healthy eyes for more information.
