Aniridia Foundation International

Aniridia Foundation International is a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization dedicated to assisting those with low vision or blindness due to the genetic blinding eye disease Aniridia. Our members consist of those with aniridia, their families, physicians, researchers, and teachers. Aniridia Foundation International headquarters are located at the Hamilton Eye Institute at the University of Tennessee in Memphis, TN.

Aniridia Foundation International members have united together because we must stop this genetic disease from passing from one generation to the next, and make a difference in the lives of those who presently live with it daily. There is currently no cure, but we hope that with our diligence and passion that we will see one in our lifetime.

A person is born with aniridia and possibly other eye or medical conditions. Most children born with aniridia have visual acuities around 20/200 and are considered legally blind. This is because the gene responsible for aniridia (PAX 6) is responsible for the development of the eye, kidneys, pancreas and forebrain. The inner structures of the eye such as the retina, optic nerve and iris are not fully developed. These children must face throughout their life and at any age the possibility of losing more vision due to the associated eye conditions of glaucoma, cataracts, corneal scarring and light sensitivity. Possible medical conditions include glucose intolerance, diabetes, obesity, and in some rarer cases WAGR syndrome. One third of those with aniridia will have WAGR Syndrome which means they will have one or more of these aspects in addition to having aniridia: Wilms tumor (cancerous tumor of the kidney usually before age 8), Genitourinary Abnormalities, Gonadblastoma and various levels of retardation or learning disabilities.

It is our hope that one day through a collaboration of the public, corporate, medical and research communities and our efforts, Aniridia and its associated conditions will be a thing of the past. Take our Hands, Walk with Us, Share our Dreams, and Help Us Make a Miracle! 

AFI Caveat: We are providing information to help those affected with Aniridia, their families, the medical community and other interested individuals as an educational tool. This is not to be used in place of seeing a doctor or specialist. In our Members Only Area, though discussions on specific problems are permissible and expected, remember no posting there shall constitute professional health care or medical advice. AFI is a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization. AFI does not diagnose or treat, or provide professional counseling. However, we do have a Medical Advisory and Scientific Board consisting of an international faculty of ophthalmologists, physicians, researchers and vision professionals to keep our information correct and timely. Aniridia Foundation International is involved in self-help, while trying to promote research and education, among other goals contained in its mission statement.

Aniridia Foundation International
930 Madison Ave.
Suite 314
Memphis, TN 38163

Phone: 901-448-2380
Fax: 901-448-2382
E-Mail: info@aniridia.net