Diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent macular degeneration, study finds

The August 2009 issue of the American Journal of Pathology presents findings from a study conducted by the National Eye Institute in Bethesda, MD that examined the direct effect of omega-3 fatty acids on the prevention of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The scientists found that mice fed a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids had slower progression of the leisons in the eye and some improvement. They also found that the mice had lower levels of inflammatory molecules and higher levels of anti-inflammatory molecules, which they suggest may explain their findings.

The researchers, led by Dr. Chi-Chao Chan of the National Eye Institute, suggest that "a diet enriched in EPA and DHA can ameliorate the progression of retinal lesions in their mouse model of AMD" and that "the results in these mice are in line with the epidemiological studies of AMD risk reduction by long chain n-3 fatty acids." Furthermore, they indicated that the results "provide the scientific basis for the application of omega-3 fatty acids and their biologically active derivatives in the prevention and treatment of AMD."

AMD is a disease associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision due to retinal damage. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for such common tasks as reading and driving. As one of the leading causes of legal blindness in the elderly, AMD affects approximately 10 percent of the population from 66 to 74 years of age. There are two types of age-related AMD. The more advanced form is Wet AMD, which occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula, the part of the eye that enables us to fine detail. These new blood vessels are typically fragile and often leak blood and fluid, causing rapid damage to the macula. The second, more gradual form is Dry AMD. This occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, gradually blurring central vision in the affected eye. Over time, as less of the macula functions, central vision is gradually lost in the affected eye.

News Release: Diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent a leading cause of blindness among elderly  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090723081518.htm    July 23, 2009