CHICAGO—In an effort to educate the public on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading eye disease in the U.S., Prevent Blindness America (PBA) has declared this week, June 3 to 9, 2013 as “AMD: Awareness Makes a Difference Week.” Throughout the week, PBA is joining its affiliates and partners across the U.S. to educate adults about the disease and the steps that can be taken to prevent it

According to PBA's Vision Problems in the U.S. 2012 report, AMD is the leading cause of blindness in older Americans, with more than 2 million Americans diagnosed with the disease, a condition that causes central vision to deteriorate over time. Though there is no sure for AMD, early detection through a dilated exam and subsequent treatment can preserve vision, PBA said.

“AMD is the leading cause of blindness in Americans ages 50 and older,” said Hugh R. Parry, PBA president and CEO. “By providing those in our community with the information they need about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, our goal is to help keep the eyes healthy well into the future.”

In support of the program, PBA is also offering a free magnetic Amsler grid, a tool which monitors a person's central vision, upon request.

For more information, visit preventblindness.org/amd or call (800) 331-2020.