Get ready to shine a spotlight on Geographic Atrophy (GA), a significant condition that affects vision and is a form of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). To raise awareness, Prevent Blindness has declared the fourth annual Geographic Atrophy Awareness Week from December 2-8, 2024. This initiative aims to inform patients and their caregivers about this critical eye health issue.

Risk Factors for Geographic Atrophy

While the exact cause of GA remains a mystery, several factors can elevate the risk of developing the condition:

- Family History of AMD: A genetic predisposition can play a crucial role.

- Age: Individuals over 60 are at a higher risk.

- Race: Caucasians report higher rates of AMD.

- Physical Traits: Light-colored eyes may be a contributing factor.

- Lifestyle Choices: Smoking significantly heightens the risk.

- Health Conditions: Heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and high cholesterol are all linked to increased risk.

- Obesity & Poor Diet: Lack of essential nutrients—especially from fruits and vegetables—can exacerbate existing issues.

- Sun Exposure: Long-term exposure to sunlight may lead to eye damage.

Resources from Prevent Blindness

To empower those diagnosed with GA and their caregivers, Prevent Blindness offers valuable resources including an episode from their Focus on Eye Health Expert Series titled, "Advancements in Treatments for Geographic Atrophy". This episode features Rajeev S. Ramchandran, MD, MBA, an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, who delves into the latest treatment breakthroughs.

Further episodes explore personal experiences and insights into GA, such as "Geographic Atrophy and Patient Support" where former Prevent Blindness Ohio CEO, Sherry Williams, shares her journey as a caregiver for her mother diagnosed with the condition. Another episode features Janet S. Sunness, MD, shedding light on existing medical support systems.

Living Well With Low Vision

Additionally, Prevent Blindness provides the invaluable resource, *Living Well With Low Vision*, which offers directories, self-help guides, downloadable apps like "GuideME for AMD", and the latest clinical trial updates for those grappling with vision loss.

Mental Wellness Resources

In acknowledging the emotional toll vision loss can take, Prevent Blindness has also created resources focused on mental wellness. Feelings of depression and anxiety can accompany vision changes, leading many to withdraw from social interactions. The organization encourages individuals to connect with support groups to share experiences and collect tools for coping.

A Message from Prevent Blindness

"This is an exhilarating time for research and treatment options for Geographic Atrophy," said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. "We encourage patients to explore our various resources and work closely with their eye care professionals to craft an effective treatment plan that prioritizes sight preservation."

For further information on Geographic Atrophy and the resources available, visit [Prevent Blindness](https://preventblindness.org/geographic-atrophy) or learn more about maintaining mental wellness in low vision scenarios at [Living Well With Low Vision](https://lowvision.preventblindness.org).

Join the Movement

Join the movement this December to educate yourself and others about Geographic Atrophy—because awareness is the first step towards prevention!