This treatment, performed in a doctor's office or eye clinic, involves aiming a strong light beam toward the new blood vessels and destroying them, preventing further loss of vision. Despite laser treatment, the disease and loss of vision may progress, and once vision is lost, it cannot be restored. This disease is the leading cause of severe visual impairment and blindness in Americans 60 years of age and older. In addition to the obvious quality of life issues faced by those with AMD, effective treatment of even 25 percent of all cases could lead to significant savings to society and decreases in the number of Social Security and other disability payments. These savings would far outweigh the costs of clinical management and treatment.
Women tend to be at slightly greater risk then men.
Heredity is also a factor. The NEI is currently funding a number of studies to learn what causes AMD and how it can be prevented or treated more successfully. Through the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, researchers at 11 clinical centers around the country are assessing the aging process, potential risk factors, and quality of life of 4700 patients. If dietary supplements prove effective, it would have a huge impact on AMD treatment and reduce the need for low vision services and devices for older Americans. It should be noted that on occasion, seemingly benign nutrients such as vitamins and minerals can be harmful when taken inappropriately, especially vitamins that accumulate in body fat.