Macula Month: your eyes called – they want a check-up

So, what exactly is the macula? 

The macula is a tiny spot in the centre of your retina, but don’t let the size fool you—it’s essential for sharp, detailed vision. Reading, driving, recognising faces, scrolling your phone...all of that relies on a healthy macula. 

When things go wrong—like with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or diabetic macular oedema (DMO)—your central vision takes a hit.  

AMD is already the leading cause of blindness in Australia, and it mostly affects people over 50.  

But here’s the catch: it can sneak up without symptoms and damage can begin before you notice any change.

New research, real risks 

Here’s what we know: 

• AMD affects around 1 in 7 Australians over 50 
• Around 7% of people with diabetes develop DMO, which affects the macula 
• Smoking, poor diet, and even regular alcohol use (yes, more than one drink a day) can increase your risk 
• Many older Australians are paying up to 12% of their annual income just to manage treatable macular disease because bulk-billing isn’t always accessible 

That’s not just alarming—it’s unnecessary. Regular eye exams and early action can slow the progression of macular disease and save your sight.

The good news? Prevention is possible 

Some top researchers, like those at the Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA) and the Save Sight Institute, are making big strides in understanding and treating AMD. 

But you don’t need to wait for a breakthrough. There’s heaps you can do right now: 

• Book an eye exam with your trusted optometrist every 1–2 years, especially if you're 50+ or have a family history of eye disease 
• Eat for your eyes—think leafy greens, colourful fruit and veg, nuts, legumes and oily fish (it’s basically the Mediterranean diet) 
• Quit smoking—it’s one of the biggest risk factors 
• Wear sunnies—protect your eyes from UV damage, all year round 
• Moderate alcohol—more than one drink a day could up your risk of AMD