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Hall Encourages Eye Checks

Macular Degeneration Awareness Week

Member for Eastern Region Peter Hall is encouraging locals to have their eyes checked during Macular Degeneration Awareness Week from May 26 to June 1.

By Peter Hall - 16th May 2013 - Back to News

"The awareness campaign is aimed at reducing the incidence and impact of Macular Degeneration in Australia," Mr Hall said.

"Macular Degeneration (MD) causes loss of central vision but the peripheral vision is not affected."

MD is the leading cause of blindness in Australia.

Mr Hall said MD central vision loss affected the ability to see fine detail, read and recognise faces.

"With one in seven Australians aged over 50 affected it is important that the health of your eyes is monitored regularly," Mr Hall said.

"Although there is no cure for MD, there are treatments that can slow the progression of this disease.

"The earlier the problem is detected, the better chance there is of retaining more vision so early detection is vital."

Mr Hall said it was important that people did not dismiss difficulty with vision as "just part of getting older".

"In its early stages MD may not be noticed but it can be detected in an eye test before any visual symptoms occur."

For more information contact the Macular Degeneration Foundation on 1800 111 709 or visit the website www.mdfoundation.com.au

Media Contact: Renee Switzer (03) 5174 7066.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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