A Vision of Hope: TLI Partnership with American Macular Disease Foundation Supports Patients, Providers, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Payers
At Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation (TLI), we're dedicated to advancing healthcare through the convergence of science, technology and public health.
Today, we're excited to share a remarkable new collaboration that holds the promise of making a substantial impact on the lives of millions of individuals facing macular degeneration. This strategic partnership with the American Macular Degeneration Foundation (AMDF) represents a significant step towards a brighter, clearer future for those affected by this vision-threatening condition.
One of our own, TLI Fellow Laura Carabello, is at the heart of this partnership. As a patient advocate for AMDF and the Chair of TLI Fellows, Laura brings her unique perspective as she shares her personal journey of timely intervention and effective management of macular degeneration. In an impactful patient testimonial video produced by AMDF, Laura's story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone who may be walking a similar path.
Her experience, from the initial diagnosis to clinical intervention, illustrates the profound impact of early detection and the modern treatments that are now available. Through Laura's journey, we witness firsthand how knowledge and innovation are making a tangible difference, alleviating symptoms and enhancing overall quality of life for those with macular degeneration.
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February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, as designated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), Prevent Blindness, National Eye Institute and other organizations. Throughout this month, all stakeholders encourage senior adults to learn more about AMD, emphasizing its status as a serious degenerative eye disease that can cause irreversible vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
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Understanding Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common eye condition affecting the macula, a small area near the center of the retina. While early AMD often presents no symptoms and may not significantly affect vision, it is estimated to affect over 14% of people aged 40 and older, with this number increasing to over 30% in individuals aged 75 and older. Late AMD, which can lead to vision loss, affects around 1.47% of people aged 40 and older and 5.7% of people aged 75 and older.
Risk factors for macular degeneration include aging, family history, smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure. Though this condition can cause significant vision impairment, it does not typically result in total blindness. Many individuals with macular degeneration can maintain relatively normal lives with the assistance of low vision aids and support services.
TLI Collaboration with AMDF
Our collaboration with AMDF allows TLI to expand our reach and bolster capabilities in reaching the millions affected by macular degeneration. Together, we aim to serve as a trusted source of information, support and most importantly, hope. We understand that dealing with macular degeneration can be a challenging journey and our partnership is focused on generating greater awareness and understanding of this disease while providing the support and resources needed.
This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by macular degeneration. Laura's inspirational journey highlights the power of early intervention and ongoing therapy, demonstrating that hope and effective treatments can light the path for individuals facing this condition.
Together, we are dedicated to advancing awareness, research, and support, forging a path towards a future where the impact of macular degeneration is minimized, and the gift of sight is preserved.
Interested in Making a Difference?
We invite you to explore our recent press release in full and join us in our mission to create a brighter future for those with macular degeneration. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions. Click here to contact us.