Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive, irreversible eye condition that typically occurs in people age 50 years an older.

AMD affects a part of the eye within the retina called the macula, which is responsible for the sharp, central vision which people rely on to do everyday activities like driving, reading, or watching TV. With AMD, that sharp, central vision gradually begins to blur. Over time, the blurry area may increase, and eventually lead to vision loss.

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a late stage of AMD and impacts approximately 20% of all people who have AMD.

GA occurs when cells in the retina waste away and die, resulting in blind spots in the visual fields. GA can occur in one or both eyes. Someone who already has GA in one eye is more likely to develop it in the other.