Taking vitamin supplements may slow down the progression of a common eye disease

Latest evidence published in the Cochrane Library suggests that taking a multivitamin supplement that includes vitamin E, carotenoids (beta-carotene or lutein or zeaxanthin), vitamin C, and zinc may slow down the progression of the common eye disease age-related macular degeneration (AMD).See additional resources at the bottom of the pageAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive and sight-threatening disease affecting the central area of the retina and affects large numbers of people across the world. Population-based studies suggest that in older people (80 years and older), approximately one in three people have early signs of the disease.There are numerous unanswered questions in the treatment of AMD. There has been a growing perception amongst eyecare professionals that taking vitamin supplements and antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, may protect patients against the progression of the eye disease.A team of Cochrane researchers conducted a study to assess whether taking antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplements slows down the progression of AMD in people with a diagnosis of AMD. They collected and analyzed data from 19 studies involving men and women from Australia, China, Europe, and the USA.Lead author Jenny Evans from the London School of Hygiene& Tropical Medicine explains more:How important was it to update this Cochrane Review?This is a topic that is currently of much interest to people with AMD. The review was last updated in 2012 and ...
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