A top Auckland ophthalmologist is joining forces with Macular Degeneration New Zealand to raise awareness of one of the leading causes of blindness in this country.

Dr Archie McGeorge an ophthalmic clinician and surgeon at Auckland Eye is presenting three seminars in July and August on macular degeneration, a condition which affects 1 in 7 New Zealanders over the age of 50.

The seminars are part of the Macular Degeneration New Zealand campaign to bring awareness to the causes and treatments of age-related macular degeneration.

Dr McGeorge says macular degeneration (MD) is currently four times more common than dementia, and occurs when the macula or central part of the retina degenerates due to ageing - which can result in total blindness.

The presentations are part of a national seminar series specifically aimed at people who already have knowledge of MD, either because they live with the condition or have a family member, friend or colleague who suffers from it, he says.

"Current research is one of the areas that is always of great interest to those with MD or those at risk, such as people over 50, smokers and those with family history. This is why the seminar series was piloted and is now being taken nationwide," says Dr McGeorge.

The seminars also provide attendees with easily understood, up-to-date information on current international research into MD, says Dr McGeorge.

Macular degeneration is more likely to cause vision problems in those aged over 50 than cataracts or glaucoma, which are more well-known. However, Dr McGeorge says that the condition can be easily screened for through a visit to a local optometrist.

Dr McGeorge North Shore Seminars

Orewa Community Centre, Orewa, July 6, 12.30pm

Albany Community Hall, Albany, July 27, 12.30pm

Mahurangi Community Centre, Snells Beach, August 10, 12.30pm.