Investigating eye health

Investigative journalist, Donal MacIntyre, 45, explains why his grandmother’s Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) made him take a hard-hitting view of his own eye health.

How did your grandmother’s AMD affect her sight?

My grandmother managed her AMD really well, not allowing it to dictate her life, but I remember her struggling to read her letters. She was very strong but you could see that her close eye concentration and sewing were affected, particularly in low light. However, it was really through my mum’s eye problems that I found out that genetics can be a key factor in AMD, and took a particular interest in the condition and my own eye health.

Had you ever heard of AMD before?

No, I didn’t know anything about it. In fact, given my very limited understanding of the condition, I was shocked to hear that it was so common.  I had no idea that it is hereditary[i]either or that it is more common in women, especially if they have paler hair and lighter eyes, like one of my daughters. Fortunately there’s enough time for me and my family to make changes to our own diet and lifestyle to protect ourselves.

What impact has your grandmother’s diagnosis had on your own life?

During my research into the condition, I heard about Ocuvite® Complete, which is formulated to help maintain macular health, and now I make sure I take it regularly.  I consider it to be a wise decision. I’m no health freak but if you can take precautions against conditions then it’s obviously sensible to do so. Our later years are all about quality of life, and the effort to remain healthy needs to start now.

AMD can be hereditary, and although it is more common in women – especially if they have paler hair and lighter eyes - has this diagnosis within the family made you more concerned about your own sight?

Of course! As a dad with two girls, one of whom is the palest of creatures with the bluest of eyes, I am keeping a keen interest in their eye care. It’s too early to get stressed but I am hyper alert for eye problems in general, considering my family’s experience. There is no doubt that the fair hair and lighter eyes makes baby Tiger (4) and myself more vulnerable to the condition.

Do you think there is enough awareness around AMD and how to protect against it?

Definitely not, yet AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK[ii]. I’d never even heard of the condition until I was told my grandmother was diagnosed with it. That’s why I’m delighted to raise awareness of AMD and show people that there are positive and simple steps - through diet, lifestyle and supplementation - to safeguard our sight.

Ocuvite® Complete contains high-quality omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, and zinc, and is available as two-a-day soft gel capsules over the counter at Boot’s and leading pharmacies. Priced at £14.95 (RRP) for 60 soft gels – a month’s supply.  For more information, visit www.bausch.co.uk