Aim: To predict the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in New Zealand from 2014 through to 2026.
Method: Prevalence estimates for AMD in New Zealand for 2014 through to 2026 were generated by applying ethnic prevalence rate estimates for any, early and late AMD to New Zealand population projections for European, Maori, Pacific and Asian peoples.
Results: The prevalence of any AMD in New Zealand for the 45-85 year age group is estimated to be 184,400 in 2014 (10.3% of this age group) and increase 12.9% to 208,200 (9.9% of this age group) in 2026. For 2014 and 2026 respectively, early disease is estimated to be 167,500 and increase to 189,200 and late disease is estimated to be 7,600 and increase to 8,600.
Conclusion: The prevalence of AMD is expected to markedly increase from 2014 through 2026. New Zealand has the lowest funding of treatment for AMD in the OECD and a relatively low ophthalmic workforce. As such, there is a need to plan for an increasing demand for intervention strategies and associated ophthalmic services.