Macular Disease Foundation Australia has called on optometrists to support Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, from 21–27 May. The Foundation’s campaign will target Australians over 50 and encourage them to visit their eye care professional for an eye test and macula check to safeguard their future sight.
In the lead-up to the annual awareness week, the Foundation has commissioned research, which focuses on the demands faced by the ‘at-risk’ group of 50–64 year olds, and the impact on saving sight. Results of the research will help shape the Foundation’s ongoing work to educate and create community awareness of detection and prevention strategies.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia Chief Executive Officer Julie Heraghty said, “There are 1.25 million Australians over 50 with some evidence of macular degeneration, yet many don’t know they’re at risk of vision loss and blindness. That is why Macular Degeneration Awareness Week continues to be so important and I call on all eye health professionals to again support this year’s campaign.”
A Macular Degeneration Awareness Week information kit is being sent to all eye health professionals detailing how optometrists and ophthalmologists can be involved.
For more information call Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au