SYDNEY -- 8 MAY 2017 -- One in seven Australians over the age of 50 have some evidence of macular degeneration, according to the Macular Diseases Foundation.
Macular Degeneration Awareness Week 2017 targets Australians between the ages of 50 and 64 years to raise their awareness of their risks. Age is the main risk factor for developing age-related macular degeneration. People aged 50-64 are considered an "at risk" group. Family history is another risk factor. If your direct family member, such as a parent or sibling, has macular degeneration, the MD Foundation states there's a 50% chance of you developing it, too.
2017's Macular Degeneration Awareness Week also focuses on how to retain good macular health. Good nutrition, an active lifestyle and regular eye tests are recommended by the Foundation as a way to attain "good macular health."