Conservative U.S. talk-show host Glenn Beck says he has been diagnosed with macular dystrophy, an eye disorder that could eventually cost him his sight.

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The 46-year-old Fox News Channel star made the announcement last weekend during his "American Revival" event in Salt Lake City, People.com reported.

"I said (to the doctor), 'Did you just charge me a thousand dollars for knowing what I already knew my whole life?'" Beck told the crowd. "I knew that at 3 (years old)! You might go blind someday. You might not."

People.com said Beck appeared teary-eyed as he told fans he has accepted the diagnosis and now regards it as "the greatest blessing."

"Lord, if you need my eyes, they're yours. They've been yours the whole time, anyway," the Web site quoted Beck as saying. "Thank you for letting me see as far as I have."