Studies are encouraging for Macular Degeneration patients

   Studies have shown that high levels of antioxidants and zinc significantly reduce the risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and its associated vision loss. However, these same nutrients had no significant effect on the development or progression of cataract. 

    The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) was a major clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute, one of the Federal government's National Institutes of Health. The AREDS was designed to: learn more about the natural history and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract; and evaluate the effect of high doses of antioxidants and zinc on the progression of AMD and cataract. 

    For a long time, we have linked good nutrition, exercise and rest to the prevention and slowing of AMD. This study helps confirm that people with AMD could lower their risks of vision loss with a regime of high-dose Vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc. 

    A diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, especially dark, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale help provide nutrients to the eyes. However, this study showed that supplementing nutrient intake with antioxidant plus zinc combinations can reduce the chances of vision loss for people with AMD. 

    Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects approximately 10 million Americans who suffer from early signs of AMD, and almost half a million people have significant visual loss from late-stage AMD. A common feature of AMD is the presence of drusen, yellow deposits under the retina. Often seen in people over the age of 60, these deposits are seen during an eye health examination in which the pupils are dilated. An increase in their size and number can lead to vision loss. The three stages of this disease are: 

    Early AMD - drusen in one or both eyes but no vision loss
    Intermediate AMD - many medium sized or one or more large drusen with little to no vision loss
    Advanced AMD - in addition to drusen, these patients have a break down of light-sensitive cells in the central retina ("dry AMD") or abnormal or fragile vessels under the retina that leak or bleed ("wet AMD".) 

    While advancements are being made in treating and managing some forms of AMD, nothing replaces these good habits of eye health:

1. Get Regular Eye Health and Vision Examinations
    The eye ages just before the rest of the body does, so the condition of eye health, especially in the tiny vessels and nerves inside the eye, can give clues to overall health as well.

2. Eat Right
    Eating an unrefined antioxidant-rich diet of fresh vegetables and fruits can lead to better eye health and slow the onset of some diseases.

3. Exercise Regularly
    Exercise reduces stress and eye pressure, and promotes cardiovascular health beneficial to the delicate structures of the eye.

4. Don't Smoke
    Studies have linked smoking to increased risks for AMD and cataracts.

5. Protect Your Eyes from Harmful Ultraviolet Radiation
    Wear 100% UV-A and UV-B blocking sunglasses when in the sun. Studies have linked UV rays to damage and aging of the eye.

6. Wear eye protection at work and play
    Accidents at home and work are one the leading causes of vision loss in this country. When working in the yard or with power equipment, be sure to wear safety-approved eyewear. At work, wear industrial-safety eyewear where eye hazards exist. 

    A new study is underway involving 100 clinics nationwide and now seeking 4,000 participants between the ages of 50 and 85 who have AMD. More information is available by visiting the National Eye Institute on the web at www.nei. nih.gov/areds2.