Macular degeneration remains a leading cause of visual loss in the elderly

While the doctors at North Shore Eye CAre lead the way in cataract and lasik surgery we still emphasize the importance of total eye care, especially for the elderly.  Recent clinical studies have shown the effectiveness vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors in the treatment of macula degeneration.  While these VEGF inhibitors help to preserve vision the treatment can be quite costly and cumbersome in that patients were getting monthly injections for the treatment of this problem.  The CATT study involving 1200 patients showed that people could be treated almost as effectively if treated on an as needed basis, though these people still required monthly follow-up care.  It also showed that avastin worked just as effectively as lucentis, but at a fraction of the cost.

While the treatment of this disease known as AMD is effective it is wise to consider preventative measures.  Eating green leafy vegetables, fruits, using antioxidant pills when necessary, and eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids have all shown to be helpful.  Interestingly, omega-6 fatty acids, which are also important in our diet have been shown to increase to increase the risk of AMD.  This is because omega-6 fatty acids increase the immune response, which while important can lead to increased bleeding, exudation, and swelling in the macular region of the eye.