Vitamin Breakthrough in Preventing Macula Degeneration

Macular Degeneration is a progressive disorder that damages the central most part of the retina called the macula. This area of the eye has the highest concentration of neuroreceptors and thus the most acute vision. Any alteration in this section of the retina will result in decreased vision.

A recent study published in The Archives of Internal Medicine on Feb 23 2009, indicated that the use of Vitamin B supplements can reduce both the onset and severity of this debilitating condition. The study was conducted on female health care professionals with a history of cardiovascular disease, or who were at risk of developing it. 5205 women were followed for an average of 7.3 years. Those taking the Vitamin B were found to have a 41% reduced risk of significant degeneration as compared to those who were given placebos during the same time period.

The test group took a combination of Vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid. Dr Wm Christen , the study’s lead author, believes the positive effects were do to the Vitamin’s ability to reduce the blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine which have been implicated in vision loss resulting from macular degeneration. Further studies need to be performed before vitamin therapy becomes an accepted treatment modality, but it does show promise in reducing the cases and severity of this condition.