Advocacy Group for Age-Related Macular Degeneration --AMD-- Offers Free Self-Test, Resources, Support Services.

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LOS ANGELES--(BW HealthWire)--Nov. 6, 2001

On the heels of the National Eye Institute report that dietary supplements reduce the risk of vision loss from AMD, the Los Angeles-based Macular Degeneration Partnership is stepping up efforts to offer comprehensive information through their Web site to educate the public in the prevention and treatment of AMD.

The AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) used dietary supplements which included a combination of antioxidants and zinc, and involved almost 5,000 people over age 55. The supplements proved most effective for those who already had intermediate or advanced AMD. This therapy resulted in a 25 percent reduction in the progression of the disease and a 19 percent reduction in the loss of vision. This is the first solid evidence that vitamins can have a positive effect on macular degeneration. But there are other things people can do to protect themselves.

"Through our Web site, www.amd.org," says Judi Delgado, the Macular Degeneration Partnership program director, "we offer a full range of resources that will help consumers integrate this study and other research into a lifelong pattern of health that can help prevent AMD." The Partnership has long been an advocate focused on identifying risk factors of those predisposed to AMD and working with researchers and scientists to determine what those affected or at risk for AMD can do to help themselves.

Macular Degeneration destroys the central vision and is the leading cause of legal blindness among seniors. It currently affects 13 million Americans. (As many suffer from AMD as suffer from Diabetes Type II!) While there is no cure for AMD, scientists have discovered that while the disease is partly due to family genetics, other risk factors such as smoking, poor nutrition and high blood pressure also contribute to AMD.

The Web site addresses another nutritional question. While Lutein was not part of the current study, for example, researchers have since determined that this antioxidant is important to the health of the retina. (Lutein is contained in spinach, kale, egg yolks and most brightly colored fruits and vegetables.) "Our Web site offers, first of all, a clear definition of AMD, risk factors for the condition, explanations of the latest research studies and nutritional information. All our services are free. We send a free Amsler grid to each person who subscribes to our Web site and email newsletter," says Delgado. The Amsler grid is a screening test for AMD that people can use at home. There is also a monthly feature with an inspirational story about someone living a happy, successful life with AMD, and the coping skills they use to remain positive and productive.

Also included are instructions on how to enlarge the text on your computer screen as well as low vision aids and a Vitamin Survey. Delgado explains, "Users can list all the vitamins and dosages they are taking, then tally the totals of ingredients to be sure they're not unintentionally taking too much. This survey can also be printed out and given to their primary caregiver."

The Web site www.amd.org, was developed two years ago and today receives more than 500,000 hits a month. "It's important for us to remain a coalition," Delgado says. "We invite other healthcare institutions and partnerships to contribute to our information because our number one goal is education and enlightenment. There is no cure for AMD, but we are working hard to try to prevent it and to find ways to treat this disease."

To receive a free email subscription and Amsler grid to be mailed to you, log on to www.amd.org.