Charity aims to open Kiwi eyes to condition

Most New Zealanders have not heard of the disease that is the biggest cause of blindness in this country.

But Macular Degeneration New Zealand aims to raise awareness of the disease, which results in the loss of central vision and is the leading cause of blindness in New Zealand. It affects one in seven New Zealanders over 50, and its incidence is expected to increase by 70 per cent by 2030. However, almost two thirds of New Zealanders aged over 15 have never heard of it .

Macular Degeneration Awareness Week is a national event calling on all New Zealanders aged 50 and over to make their macular health a priority by having their eyes tested and macula checked regularly.

People most at risk are those over 50, smokers and those with a family history of the disease. And early detection is crucial to prevent vision loss.

The Awareness Week also aims to ensure that those who are most at risk are aware of the importance of nutrition and lifestyle to prevent the progression of this disease.

Next to age and heredity, smokers are at most risk, as studies suggest that diet and lifestyle is important in reducing the risk of macular degeneration and in slowing down its progression.

New Zealand actress Dame Kate Harcourt is one well-known New Zealander who has been affected by the disease.

"I have macular degeneration - it's actually a very common condition," she says. "That's why it's so important to me that we raise awareness of it, so we can educate people and help to save their sight."

Broadcaster Philip Sherry has also seen the effects first-hand: "Macular degeneration was the bane of my mother's life, so I will do everything I can to raise awareness of this disease."

There are two types of MD: "wet" (sudden) and "dry" (progressive). While there are effective treatments for wet MD, early detection is vital, as some people still experience a significant loss of vision, and for people with dry MD, there is no treatment. There is no "cure" for either type, but diet and lifestyle may modify risks.

The emotional, social and economic impact of quality of life from visual impairment can be severe, so as much awareness as possible is needed to change the statistics in New Zealand.

Support and information is at www.seeourvision.org.nz