Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Common Age Groups
Age-related macular degeneration primarily affects individuals over 55 years of age, with prevalence and severity increasing dramatically with advancing age, particularly after 75 years. 1, 2
Age Distribution and Prevalence
Onset Age
- AMD affects individuals older than 55 years, with this serving as the typical threshold for disease development 1, 2
- The disease is specifically named for its age-related nature, distinguishing it from other macular pathologies in younger populations 1
Peak Prevalence by Age Groups
Ages 66-74 years:
- Early AMD prevalence: 12.4% 3
- This represents the initial high-risk period where disease manifestations begin to appear with significant frequency 3
Ages 75+ years:
- This age group experiences substantially elevated risk, with 25% developing early AMD and 8% progressing to late AMD 4
- The disease burden becomes a major public health concern in this demographic 4
Ages 85+ years (highest risk group):
- Early AMD prevalence: 36% 3
- Exudative (wet) AMD: 11.4% 3
- Geographic atrophy (dry late AMD): 7.6% 3
- This oldest age group demonstrates a 10-fold higher prevalence of late AMD compared to those aged 70-74 years 3
Clinical Significance
Leading Cause of Blindness
- AMD is the leading cause of blindness in industrialized countries for patients over 65 years 5
- The condition specifically threatens high-acuity central vision required for reading, driving, and facial recognition 2
Epidemiologic Projections
- Global AMD cases are predicted to increase from 196 million in 2020 to 288 million by 2040, driven primarily by aging populations and increased longevity 1, 2
- This demographic shift underscores the importance of early detection in the over-55 age group 4
Key Clinical Pitfall
The exponential increase in both prevalence and severity with each advancing decade after age 55 means that screening and monitoring intensity should escalate accordingly, particularly for patients entering their 70s and beyond 3. Visual symptoms are typically absent or mild in early stages, making age-based screening protocols essential 1.