What are the chances of developing geographic atrophy (GA) or losing central vision with AMD?
The risk varies depending on what stage of AMD you're currently at. Here's what the research shows:
- Up to 19% of people with AMD progress to GA within just 2 years of diagnosis
- About 20% of people who experience severely Show Full Answer
What are the chances of developing geographic atrophy (GA) or losing central vision with AMD?
The risk varies depending on what stage of AMD you're currently at. Here's what the research shows:
- Up to 19% of people with AMD progress to GA within just 2 years of diagnosis
- About 20% of people who experience severely decreased vision from AMD have GA
- If you already have wet AMD, up to 37% develop GA within 2 years The good news is that GA doesn't cause complete blindness. It affects your central vision — the part you use for reading, watching TV, and recognizing faces — but your peripheral (side) vision typically stays intact.
Progression also varies greatly from person to person. Factors like smoking can speed things up, so that's worth discussing with your eye doctor (ophthalmologist).
Early action really does matter here. There are now medications that can help slow progression, so staying on top of regular eye exams is one of the best things that can be done.
September 3