Research experts set for Scotland eye health meet

The latest research taking place to help find a cure for one of the biggest causes of blindness will take centre stage in a Scotland-wide event.

Experts in the field of macular disease research will join the talk, including leading ophthalmology researcher professor Baljean Dhillion of the University of Edinburgh.

The online talks will take place over an hour on Zoom on Wednesday 13 September, 11am-12pm.

The event is overseen by sight loss charity the Macular Society, which is the only UK charity solely dedicated to funding research for macular disease. It supports people of all ages with a macular condition, of which some conditions have treatments to help people manage their central vision, though there is no cure.

Professor of clinical ophthalmology Baljean Dhillon will discuss some of the latest treatments available, as well as ongoing research into the fight against age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The Macular Society’s Sarah Clinton will provide an update on research projects funded by the charity, as well as the audience having the opportunity to put their questions to the experts.

To register for the event please email the Macular Society at groupsadmin@macularsociety.org or call 01264 560 259 who will then be able to provide the Zoom link.

Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected by macular disease and many more are at risk. The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces.

Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement. There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. AMD is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50.

For general information on macular disease, call the Macular Society on 0300 3030 111 or email help@macularsociety.org