Raising Awareness About Australia’s Leading Cause of Blindness
May is Macular Month, a vital time to raise awareness about macular degeneration — the leading cause of legal blindness in Australia, particularly for people over 50. At Adelaide City Optometrist, we’re passionate about protecting your sight and encouraging early detection of this sight-threatening disease.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a chronic and progressive condition that affects the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It can cause blurring, distortion, and eventually a loss of central vision, making it difficult to read, recognise faces, or drive.
There are two main types of AMD:
Dry Macular Degeneration: The more common and slower-progressing form.
Wet Macular Degeneration: Less common but more aggressive, with sudden and severe vision loss caused by abnormal blood vessels leaking under the macula.
Why May Matters for Your Eyes
Macular Month is led by the Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) to help Australians better understand the risks, signs, and importance of early intervention. One in seven Australians over the age of 50 already shows signs of AMD, but many remain undiagnosed until it’s too late.
At Adelaide City Optometrist, we’re using this month to remind our community that early detection is your best defence against permanent vision loss.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing AMD:
Age (over 50)
Family history of the disease
Smoking (which triples your risk)
Poor diet low in antioxidants and omega-3s
Cardiovascular disease
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s essential to have regular eye exams, especially after age 50.
How Is Macular Degeneration Detected?
During a comprehensive eye exam, our optometrists use advanced retinal imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to look closely at the macula. These non-invasive scans allow us to detect even the earliest signs of changes — often before symptoms begin.
At Adelaide City Optometrist, we are a Zeiss Vision Expert practice, meaning we use the latest technology to deliver precision diagnostics and personalised care plans.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Macular degeneration often begins silently, with no symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may notice:
Blurred or fuzzy vision
Straight lines appearing wavy (metamorphopsia)
Difficulty reading or seeing fine detail
A dark or empty spot in the centre of your vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, book an urgent eye test.
Can Macular Degeneration Be Treated?
While there’s no cure, early diagnosis gives you the best chance to slow progression and preserve sight. Treatment options include:
Anti-VEGF injections for wet AMD
Nutritional supplements, such as Macutec or AREDS2 formulas, for dry AMD
Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing blood pressure
We stock clinically recommended supplements like Macutec in our practice and online store to support long-term macular health.
Supporting your eyes this month
During May, we suggest:
Booking an eye test during the month of May
Taking an Educational brochure from the Macular Disease Foundation after your appointment
Purchasing Macutec (if you have run out or are not currently taking a supplement)
- Take the Check My Macular Quiz – it takes 60 seconds to save your sight!
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, tools, and the care you need to protect your vision for life. There are many resources out there to help you learn and it is worth knowing as much about AMD as possible to ensure your vision is taken care of.
Book Your Health Check Today
Your vision is precious. Take the first step in protecting it. Book a comprehensive eye test in Adelaide with our experienced optometrists, and make sure your macula is healthy and strong.
