This podcast explores two major age-associated neurodegenerative conditions—Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), the leading cause of dementia, and Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in older adults—and compares their global impact, regional trends, and public health implications. Though AD is highly visible in media and policy, AMD actually affects more people worldwide and remains comparatively under-recognised.
Global Prevalence & Projections
Recent global analyses show AD and other dementias affected about 57.4 million people in 2019, projected to rise to 152.8 million by 2050 (≈2.7-fold increase). In comparison, AMD already affects ~200 million people as of 2020, expected to reach 288 million by 2040. Thus, the absolute burden of AMD—especially given its vision-threatening nature—outstrips that of AD, yet awareness and resources remain far lower.
Regional Breakdowns
· In the US, AD affects about 7.2 million adults 65+ (≈11%), and among those 85+, prevalence may reach one-third. AMD affects ~18.3 million adults 40+ with early AMD and 1.5 million with late disease; among 80+, late AMD may reach ≈9%.
· In Canada, dementia affects nearly 600,000 people, projected to double by 2050. AMD is the top cause of vision loss in 55+, affecting >2.5 million and ≈90% of new blindness cases each year.
· In Europe, AMD affects 67 million (aged 60+), with 25.3% having early/intermediate and 2.4% late disease. Projections: 69 million by 2040 and 77 million by 2050 (including 11.7 million late AMD).
· The greatest AMD growth is expected in Asia: by 2040 ≈113 million cases (~40% global total). Africa and Latin America/Caribbean each may reach ~39 million, North America ~25 million.
Key Insights & Discussion
While AD’s relative growth rate may be higher, the absolute global burden of AMD already exceeds it—yet AMD receives far less attention in health policy, funding, and prevention. AMD also has modifiable risk factors (diet, lifestyle, screening, nutrition) unlike AD, making early detection and awareness vital. Both diseases threaten independence and quality of life, but AMD’s impact is less recognised.
Implications
· Screening, awareness, and preventive strategies for AMD should be elevated to a public health priority like AD.
· Policy makers should integrate vision-health programs into aging strategies, given AMD’s burden and lifestyle links.
· Researchers and clinicians should act on the fact that AMD progression can be slowed and early detection matters.
· Millions may face avoidable vision loss due to under-diagnosis and under-management of AMD.
Conclusion
Vision health deserves the same global urgency as cognitive health. AMD’s prevalence, growth, and prevention potential call for more investment, awareness, and integration into aging and chronic-disease frameworks. For older adults, addressing modifiable risks can protect eyesight—and quality of life—just as efforts to preserve brain function do.
“While Alzheimer’s receives broad recognition, AMD affects far more individuals worldwide and yet remains under-recognised. Protecting vision through early awareness, nutrition, and lifestyle offers a path to a brighter future.”