Early detection can slow progression

The macula, the dark dot in the middle of the back of the eye, enables people to read, recognise faces, drive a car, see colours clearly and any other activity that requires fine vision.

Dry macular degeneration is caused by the build-up of waste material resulting in a gradual loss of central vision. Images supplied.

Wet macular degeneration is characterised by a sudden loss of vision caused by abnormal blood vessels growing into the retina.

Those at risk are being urged to get eye tests to tackle New Zealand's most common cause of blindness.

Macular degeneration is a chronic eye disease that affects the central vision of one in seven New Zealanders over the age of 50.

It will be the focus of New Zealand activities marking World Sight Day on Thursday.

Dr Dianne Sharp, who is an ophthalmologist and chairwoman of Macular Degeneration New Zealand, said those at high risk of developing the disease included people over the age of 50, smokers and people with a family history of macular degeneration (MD).

Dr Sharp is encouraging New Zealanders potentially at risk to have their macula checked. ''Early detection and a healthy diet and lifestyle can slow down the disease's progression massively,'' she said.

In this country, more than 210,000 people have MD. An ageing population is expected to increase that figure by 70% within 20 years.

World Sight Day is a global initiative of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, the co-ordinating organisation leading global efforts to prevent blindness.

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