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RESEARCH AND REPORTS undefined undefined
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There has been a considerable amount of research into Macular Degeneration in recent years, not only in Australia but worldwide. The MD Foundation aims to provide access to current research and reports related to Macular Degeneration from around the world. This information is intended to inform the MD Community of new studies and research projects related to the disease. Please consult your health care professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle based on the findings in these reports.
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Age, family history and smoking are the only proven risk factors for MD, with smoking being the only modifiable risk factor.
- An overview of recent studies on modifiable risk factors associated with MD, written by Dr Robyn H. Guymer Associate Professor Centre for Eye Research Australia.
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 The following studies supports the growing body of evidence indicating that smoking is related to an increased risk of developing MD.
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 This research supports the growing evidence that MD is hereditary, with a 50% chance of developing MD if a family history of MD is present.
- The following research papers provide evidence that MD affects 1 in 7 Australians over the age of 50, with the incidence increasing with age.
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- Clinical trials conducted in the United States, titled The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) have found that antioxidants and zinc could help to slow the progression of age related macular degeneration (AMD), among people with intermediate and late stages of MD.
- A review of eight randomised trials comparing antioxidant vitamin or mineral supplementation (alone or in combination) to a control intervention in people conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration.
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- The following papers provide evidence that suggests that a diet high in lutein and zeaxanthin, which can be found in a number of fruit and vegetables, can protect against the development or progression of MD.
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 The following studies supports growing evidence that eating fish and nuts can provide protection against early and late ARM in this older Australian.
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The following papers provide evidence regarding the extent of success about various treatments Wet MD available in Australia.
- Visudyne / Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
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- The following research studies address the possible relationship between cataract surgery and increased prevalence of advanced Macular Degeneration.
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 Recent information about new AREDS 2 clinical trials about to commence, which will include lutein and reduce the zinc content.
- UK scientists have embarked on a project which will transplant embryonic stem cells to repair damaged cells caused by macular degeneration.
- U.S. scientists have begun a clinical trial which involves surgically implanting a miniature telescope in the eyes of people with end-stage age-related macular degeneration.
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RECENT RESEARCH DEVELOPMENTS |
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- Macular Degeneration and Heart Disease
Researchers at the University of Sydney have conducted a study which suggests that the risk of dying from cardiovascular conditions is at least doubled in people with AMD.
Read the Summary
Read the Detailed Study
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SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS |
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- The following publications by the Centre for Eye Research Australia provide detailed information about the social and economic impact of MD on the Australian community.
- The following link addresses the issue of depression among people with MD.
- The first ever qualitative research on patient perspectives on quality of life with AMD. Patients report the anguish of delayed diagnosis, slow referrals and poor access to the latest treatments. Europe - AMD Alliance international.
- The following paper is a review of literature on the quality of life among people with MD.
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OTHER RELEVANT AUSTRALIAN PUBLICATIONS |
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 Department of Health and Aging Reports
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
- Macular Degeneration Foundation Research
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LINKS TO OTHER RELEVANT ORGANISATIONS |
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