Epidemiology, Prevalence and Incidence in Wet-Form (Neovascular) Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common leading causes of severe, irreversible visual impairment. Due to the increase in the mean population age mainly in developed countries, both the incidence and prevalence of AMD are progressively increasing. It is projected that 196 million people will be affected by AMD in 2020, increasing to 288 million by 2040. It causes nearly 40 % decreases in quality of life which is similar to permanent renal dialysis or severe cardiac angina. To identify risk factors for AMD as a global health problem, to take necessary preventions for public health will decrease both its incidence and prevalence.