AMD Prevalence In India, China and Malaysia Similar

Editor's Choice
Academic Journal
Main Category: Eye Health / Blindness
Article Date: 13 Dec 2011 - 9:00 PST


According to an investigation being published Online First by the Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals, in Asia, the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - an eye disease connected with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision - is similar among individuals from India, China and Malay.

AMD is one of the primary causes of blindness in older individuals. AMD gradually destroys sharp central vision needed for seeing objects clearly and carrying out everyday tasks, such as driving and reading. Although the prevalence of AMD is high in Asia, very few population-based investigations have been carried out among Asian populations.

Chui Ming Gemmy Cheung, F.R.C.Ophth, of the Singapore National Eye Centre, and colleagues carried out a population-based investigation of individuals of Indian, Chinese and Malay ethnicities in order to determine the prevalence of AMD as well as risk factors for the condition among the three Asian groups. 3,172 individuals were enrolled to participate in the study. They underwent comprehensive systemic and ocular analysis, laboratory examinations as well as retinal photography.

The team report that 211 of the 3,172 participants had AMD. The age-standardized prevalence of AMD was 7% in individuals aged 40+. The researchers explain:

"The age-standardized prevalence was similar in all three Asian ethnic groups: Chinese, 7.3 percent; Malay, 7.7 percent; and Indian, 5.7 percent. The prevalence increased with age and was higher in men."

A variety of systemic risk factors were examined by the team. Myopia (nearsightedness) was considerably linked to a reduced risk of AMD in men of Chinese ethnicity. The team found no connections with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, blood pressure, smoking and other risk factors analyzed in the investigation.

The researchers conclude:

"The prevalence of AMD was similar in the three major ethnic groups in Asia and comparable with white populations. Myopic refractive error was associated with reduced risk of AMD in Chinese men."

Written by Grace Rattue
Copyright: Medical News Today
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