New genetic tests are becoming increasing common in the discovery of an individual’s risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Age-related Macular Degeneration is an eye disease in which a loss of central vision occurs while peripheral vision remains. With the new genetic tests doctors are able to detect their patients chances for AMD and cater to each individual patient’s treatment accordingly. This allows those with a higher chance of developing AMD to be proactive in their treatment and understanding of the eye disease.

The genetic test screens for specific changes in DNA that can show your risk of developing significant macular degeneration on a graded scale. The risk factors of developing this eye disease include both genetic and environmental factors, which are considered in the testing.

AMD genetic testing takes into account:

• Smoking history: Smoking increases the risk of macular degeneration in current and former smokers by two times that of someone who has never smoked
• Ethnicity: Caucasians are at the highest risk
• Gender: Females seem to have a higher risk than men
• Family history: Individuals with a single relative with AMD are twice as likely to develop the eye disease
• Age: Individuals over 60 years old are at a high risk
• Obesity: Studies have shown that obesity is a factor in the early onset of AMD

This test can be performed quickly in the office with a painless cheek swab. Knowing your risks gives you the power to take your preventative measures into your own hands. Come in or bring your loved ones into your nearest Doctors Vision Center office to take your eye health into your own hands today.

Dr. Andrew Graves