09/01/2025
September is Inherited Retinal Disease Awareness Month. An inherited retinal disease (IRD) is a condition caused by mutations in one or more genes that affect the structure and function of the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye. These diseases lead to impaired vision, vision loss, and potentially blindness. According to Fighting Blindness Canada, over 20,000 Canadians have an IRD and for many there is no treatment or cure. Early diagnosis through genetic testing is a crucial first step to manage and, if possible, slow the progression of IRDs. There are over 20 IRDs, including retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, Usher syndrome, choroideremia, cone-rod dystrophy, X-linked retinoschisis, Best disease (vitelliform macular dystrophy), and optic nerve hypoplasia.
