The great potential of these breakthroughs has lead the Infirmary to establish the Retina Research Institute for Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Degeneration to focus research and technology on these two debilitating diseases. In its advanced stages, people with AMD lose the ability to see straight ahead and can no longer drive, read, recognize faces, watch television, or do any fine work. For those suffering from AMD, this loss of independence can be devastating. Unfortunately, today there are no good treatments for this incurable disorder. AMD currently affects 13 million people in the United States alone, and is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 55.
Diabetic retinopathy is a blinding eye disease that affects patients suffering from diabetes.
It is a particularly devastating condition as it generally attacks both eyes, complicates an already difficult medical situation, and strikes during the most productive years of the patient's life. With regular examinations and treatment through laser therapy and surgery, loss of vision can often be slowed or minimized. Yet, despite these treatments over three million people currently have diabetic retinopathy. This disease remains the leading cause of vision loss in Americans aged 25-55. Through a process known as angiogenesis, unwanted blood vessels proliferate and leak, causing scarring and damage to the delicate retina, resulting in vision loss.