The Macula Days are held from June 24 to 28, 2019. The goal: to raise public awareness of macular pathologies and promote their detection.
Screening to save your sight! This is what the Institute for Medical Education and Prevention wishes to convey during the three days of Macula Days. Three diseases will be particularly highlighted, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50 in France, diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes, and maculopathy myopia caused by stretching of the retina.
Contrary to popular belief, screening for these diseases is simple, quick and painless. It consists of an examination of the fundus, which makes it possible to observe the structures of the eye located behind the lens. The exam only lasts 5 to 10 minutes and is not painful. No more reason not to go get tested!
The macula, the central region of the retina
The macula is a circular region in the central part of the retina. It is responsible for central, fine and precise vision, which allows reading and recognition of details. In cases of AMD, for example, there is a deterioration of the sensory cells of the macula. Only central vision is therefore affected, peripheral vision being preserved. AMD is not responsible for total blindness.
In diabetic neuropathy (or retinopathy), the macula thickens, causing macular edema (i.e. swelling of the macula) and decreased visual acuity. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that affects 50% of type 2 diabetic patients. For more information on screening days and locations, visit the website www.journees-macula.fr or call 0 800 002 426, service and free call.
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