PURPOSE: To review the epidemiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
DESIGN: Evidence from epidemiologic data regarding the natural history of AMD and its risk
factors are presented. RESULTS: Large, soft drusen associated with pigmentary
abnormalities increase the risk of progression to advanced AMD. Large soft drusen may
fade over time. Advanced AMD is more likely to be present in whites than blacks, despite the
similar prevalence of soft drusen in both groups. Neovascular AMD is more frequent than …

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. 1, 2
Because AMD adversely affects activities of daily living, rendering it more difficult to read,
write, and drive, many affected individuals lose their independence in their retirement years.
Age-related macular degeneration is estimated to affect more than 8 million individuals in
the United States3; the advanced form of the disease affects more than 1.75 million
individuals. 4 The population over age 85 years is expected to increase by 107% by the year …