People can now add age-related macular degeneration (AMD) to the list of eye conditions that tend to run in the family, according to a press release from the American Academy of Ophthalmology on June 25.
The academy said in the press release that people with family members who have eye conditions such as AMD or glaucoma are more likely to be diagnosed with similar issues later in life than are those who whose family history does not include eye diseases. Furthermore, the Academy added in the press release that people are four to nine times more likely to be diagnosed with glaucoma if they have a family member living with the disease.
The Academy added in the press release that people need to know the medical history of their family in order to be proactive in safeguarding their eye health. For this reason the Academy and its affiliate, EyeCare America, are strongly recommending that Americans talk to look into their family eye health history. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to put it on the agenda should there be a family reunion or other type of family gathering on the horizon.
EyeCare America Chairman Dr. Richard P. Mills stressed in the press release that family gatherings offer the ideal venue for talking about eye issues. Armed with information about family eye health history, people can then have productive discussions with their eye care provider.
The Academy and EyeCare America recommended a number of things that people should remember when they meet with their family. These include the following:
- Query family members as to whether or not they have an eye condition.
- Disclose any eye condition to family members.
- Check out www.eyecareamerica.org to determine suitability for cost-free eye exam. People then need to inform their ophthalmologist if there is any history of eye ailments in the family.
EyeCare America, according to the press release, offers no-cost exams to qualifying people from high-risk groups in society such as those who have family members living with eye ailments, Hispanics, African-Americans and people aged 65 or older.
This article brought to you by PreserveMacForte.com