WVU Medicine Highlights Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness

Early detection and advanced care can slow AMD progression and help patients maintain vision and independence.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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WVU Medicine is raising awareness about age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss among older adults that affects millions of Americans. While AMD cannot be reversed, regular vision screening, lifestyle risk reduction, and timely access to evolving treatments can help slow the progression of the disease and allow patients to maintain functional vision and independence.

Why it matters

AMD has a significant impact on quality of life for those affected, so raising awareness about the condition, its risk factors, and available treatments is crucial. Early detection and management of AMD can help preserve vision and independence for older adults.

The details

According to Dr. Ghassan Ghorayeb, an ophthalmologist and retina specialist at the WVU Eye Institute, regular vision screening and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of AMD. Additionally, emerging treatments can slow the progression of the disease if it is detected early.

  • WVU Medicine highlighted AMD awareness and treatment on February 11, 2026.

The players

Ghassan Ghorayeb, M.D.

An ophthalmologist and retina specialist at the WVU Eye Institute.

WVU Eye Institute

A division of WVU Medicine that provides comprehensive eye care services.

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What they’re saying

“Regular vision screening and lifestyle risk reduction, paired with timely access to evolving treatments, can make a difference for patients with AMD.”

— Ghassan Ghorayeb, M.D., Ophthalmologist and Retina Specialist

The takeaway

By raising awareness about AMD and the importance of early detection and management, WVU Medicine is helping older adults in West Virginia and beyond maintain their vision and independence as they age.