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One of the main risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is increased age. Many other eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts, also become more common as you grow older. This is partly due to changes that happen as we age and as the cells become more damaged over time.

You may have heard your eye doctor talk about how important diet and lifestyle changes can be on reducing risk, or slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While there can be genetic factors involved, environmental factors also play an important role in determining risk of AMD.

Patients have a very important part to play in medical research. Over a million people take part in studies and trials in the UK each year. Without them we would not have the treatments we have today and new and improved treatments would not be possible.

Dr Wen Hwa Lee, chief executive and chief scientist of charity Action Against AMD (AAAMD), joined us for a recent webinar to share how your data could support ground breaking eye health research.

There are regular opportunities for people living with macular disease to participate in research studies. The purpose of these studies is to understand more about the impact macular disease has on individuals, and on their family and friends. It can be anything from completing short surveys to taking part in focus groups or interviews. We also carry out our own surveys.

Patients have a very important part to play in research. Over a million people take part in studies and trials in the UK each year. Without them we would not have the treatments we have today and new and improved treatments would not be possible.

There are many clinical trials and research studies looking at new treatments and ultimately trying to find a cure for macular disease. We are often approached by researchers to help find people willing to take part. Involvement can range from providing feedback on new developments, to undergoing treatment as part of a clinical trial.

Interested in the research we are funding with your generous donations?

The vision of the Macular Society is to end macular disease through funding world-class medical research.

As well as medical research, the Macular Society funds research to help those living with macular disease now. For example, projects on the eccentric viewing technique have helped the Society to train and support those with macular disease to use their remaining vision most effectively.