The abbreviation IRD refers to a group of hereditary conditions called retinal diseases. Genes contain DNA, also known as “deoxyribonucleic acid.” A gene contains the instructions necessary for the development and operation of the retinal cells in our bodies. A “mistake” or alteration in one or more genes causes IRDs. Because of this, retinal cells don’t function properly, which eventually results in vision loss. Already, 250 genes have been linked to IRD.

There are many more genes, but they haven’t all been discovered. Each IRD may be passed down differently within a family from one generation to the next. It’s possible that you or a member of your family has an IRD. You might be the oldest member of your family.