The leading cause of blindness in Irish people over the age of 50 continues to be the eye disease AMD. However many people affected are not even aware they have it

The warning comes ahead of AMD Awareness Week 2014, which runs from September 15-21. This year's campaign - 'Begin Your New Chapter' - is highlighting how the disease can impact on a person's ability to read.

AMD (age-related macular degeneration) affects central vision, making it blurry. Central vision is necessary for everyday activities such as reading, driving and watching television.

It is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 50 in Ireland, with over 7,000 new cases developing every year, however many of those affected remain undiagnosed.

Regular eye tests can identify the early signs of AMD, leading to early diagnosis and treatment. There are two main types of the disease - dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD develops slowly over time and unfortunately there are no proven treatments for it, but with wet AMD, which can develop quickly, vision can be maintained and even improved in most cases if caught and treated early.

The campaign has been developed by the NCBI (national sight loss organisation), Fighting Blindness, the Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO) and the Association of Optometrists Ireland (AOI). It is also supported by Novartis. All are emphasisng the importance of regular eye tests in detecting AMD.

As part of the campaign, a mobile testing unit will be offering free AMD testing during AMD Awareness Week in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Galway. Since 2008, more than 4,300 people have been tested for the condition during this annual event. Of these, 8% have been referred on for further testing and diagnosis.

Free AMD testing will also be available in participating optometrists nationwide.

For more information on the condition and for details on testing locations during AMD Awareness Week, click here

For more information on general eye health, see our Eye Clinic here