Abstract
Epidemiological studies on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) provide crucial
data on the frequency of early and late forms as well as associated risk factors.
The increasing number of
population-based cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies in Germany and Europe
with published data is making prevalence and incidence estimators for AMD more robust,
although they
show mostly method-related fluctuations. This review article brings together the latest
published epidemiological measures for AMD from Germany and Central as well as Western
Europe. Based
on this data and population figures for Germany and Europe, prevalence is projected,
and future trends are forecasted. The epidemiological evidence for AMD-associated
risk factors is also
improving, especially through meta-analyses within large consortia with correspondingly
high case numbers. This review article summarizes the latest findings and resulting
recommendations
for prevention approaches. Additionally, it discusses treatment options and future
challenges.
Key words
age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - prevalence - incidence - risk factors - population-based
studies - demographic development