Time: 2024-07-19
A recent study conducted by researchers at the National Institutes of Health ( NIH ) has revealed a groundbreaking discovery in the field of ophthalmology . The study focused on the use of a daily Dietary supplement containing antioxidant vitamins and minerals in individuals with late - stage dry age - related macular degeneration ( AMD ) . Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects central vision , leading to difficulties in daily tasks such as reading and driving . The study , published in the journal Ophthalmology , highlights the potential benefits of taking the AREDS2 formula in slowing the progression of late - stage dry AMD.
The researchers analyzed data from participants in the Age - Related Eye Diseases Studies ( AREDS and AREDS2 ) trials who had developed dry AMD . By reviewing original retinal scans , the researchers observed that the antioxidant supplements in the AREDS2 formula slowed the expansion of geographic atrophy regions towards the central foveal region of the retina . This discovery indicates that the supplements could help individuals with late dry AMD preserve their central vision . The study , led by Tiarnan Keenan , M.D. , Ph.D. , from the National Eye Institute ( NEI ) , sheds light on the potential benefits of antioxidant supplementation in late - stage AMD.
The findings of the study have significant implications for individuals with late - stage dry AMD . For those whose geographic atrophy regions are located away from the fovea , taking the supplements slowed the rate of expansion towards the central vision by approximately 55 % over an average of three years . This suggests that the AREDS2 supplements could help individuals maintain their central vision for a longer period , even after developing late - stage dry AMD . However , the supplements did not show substantial benefits for individuals with geographic atrophy in their central vision.
Dr. Keenan and his team plan to confirm these findings in a dedicated clinical trial in the near future . This next step in research aims to validate the potential of antioxidant supplementation in slowing central vision loss in individuals with late - stage dry AMD . The study offers hope to millions of older adults worldwide affected by this sight - threatening condition , providing a simple yet effective approach to preserving precious central vision.
In conclusion , the study 's findings underscore the importance of dietary supplements containing antioxidants in the management of late - stage dry AMD . By slowing the progression of geographic atrophy towards the central foveal region of the retina , these supplements offer a promising avenue for preserving central vision in individuals with this condition . Further research and clinical trials will continue to explore the potential benefits of such dietary interventions in the field of ophthalmology.
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