Quality of life in patients with age-related macular degeneration – Medical and social problem

Introduction
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness over the age of 50 in western countries. People with AMD are suffering from serious vision-related disability and their social life is compromised. Purpose: The aim of our study was to assess quality of life (QoL) in patients with exudative AMD.

Material and methods
The study group was 100 patients treated for AMD with anti-VEGF therapy. The control group were 30 age and sex matched subjects without ophthalmic disorders. QoL was assessed with National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ – 25).

Results
There was statistically significant difference in QoL overall score between study group and control group. Patients with AMD obtained 51.1 (± 20.5 ) overall score, control group reached 83.7 (± 11.7) overall score, p = 0.001. Detailed analysis of study group revealed low acceptance of the disease and strong dependency.

Conclusions
QoL in patients with AMD assessed with NEI VFQ-25, is significantly impaired. Low quality of life and difficulties in performing daily activities point at the need of formal psychological and social care.