Leading the way in blindness prevention
By Amanda Rungis, Sure Optical
Imagine not being able to do something you’ve always taken for granted – like driving a car, reading the newspaper or even watching your children play.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Australia and the rest of the western world. Affecting a staggering 1 in 7 Australians over the age of 50, it severely impairs a person’s central vision making it extremely difficult (and ultimately impossible) to read, drive or perform other activities that require fine detailed vision.
The key to preventing the onset of macular degeneration is early detection and leading the charge in this regard is Lisarow Optometrist, Sure Optical. Owner and optometrist, Amanda Rungis was the very first in Australia to introduce the MPOD™ to our shores – a revolutionary machine that accurately tracks macular protective pigment changes in the macula. With the latest available technology, Sure Optical can identify those patients on the Central Coast who are at high risk for developing this condition and then provide options for reducing this risk, potentially protecting a person’s sight.
“Macular degeneration claimed my grandfather’s vision in 2004”, said Ms Rungis. “That was the beginning of the end. He lost his sight, next lost his home and independence, then gave up the will to live and ultimately lost his life. He said to my grandmother, his wife of 58 years, that the one thing he missed most was her beautiful face.”
MPOD™ testing is recommended for all adults over 20 years of age, especially those with a family history of the disease, or those with other risk factors like smoking or obesity. The test is painless, non-invasive and takes less than five minutes to complete.
To find out more about the MPOD™ or to make an appointment contact Sure Optical on 4329 7000 or visit www.sureoptical.com.au