| August 30, 2010 | Peter Phelps (269) 966-8131 |
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The Aging Eye
Do you or someone close to you suffer from macular degeneration? Have you recently been diagnosed with diabetes? If you answered 'yes' to either of those questions, than you may want to attend a public meeting that deals with 'Advances in the Treatment of Macular Degeneration.' Dr. Surendar Purohit, a surgeon and retinal specialist will discuss those conditions and the latest technologies used in treating them on Wednesday, September 15. The presentation, part of the Senior Health Partners' 'Aging Well' series, will begin with a light lunch at 11:30 a.m. followed by Dr. Purohit's presentation at noon. The program at Burnham Brook is free to the public, however seating is limited. For reservations call toll free 1-877-Go2-BCHS (877-462-2247). Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a relatively common eye disease that causes deterioration of the macula, the central area of the retina. Sharp, clear, 'straight ahead' vision is processed by the macula so if it becomes damaged it can cause blind spots and blurred or distorted vision which can ultimately make many daily activities such as driving and reading increasingly difficult. AMD usually affects individuals older than 50 years of age, and scientific evidence shows that genes may play a role in the development of nearly three out of four cases of this devastating eye disease. AMD is a major cause of visual impairment in the United States. Approximately 1.8 million Americans age 40 and older have advanced AMD, and another 7.3 million people with intermediate AMD are at substantial risk for vision loss. The government estimates that by 2020 there will be 2.9 million people with advanced AMD. Senior Health Partners, a community partnership of Battle Creek Health System, CentraCare, Region 3B Area Agency on Aging, and Summit Pointe, works to expand wellness and educational offerings to senior citizens in Calhoun and surrounding counties. |
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