Macular Degeneration Research Update
Increase of Macular Degeneration
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is group of retinal eye diseases wherein central vision is lost but side or peripheral vision is preserved. This means people suffering from macular degeneration have their abilities impaired when it comes to driving, reading, recognising faces, and performing other activities that require detailed vision.
According to the Macular Degeneration Foundation Australia, 50% of all cases of blindness are due to macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of severe vision loss and legal blindness in Australia. 1 in 7 elderly Australians over the age of 50 are affected by age-related macular degeneration, despite degeneration not being an inevitable consequence of aging.
The rate of age-related macular degeneration is predicted to grow as the average age of Australians increases.
Promising New Treatments
Current treatments of macular degeneration most commonly include monthly injections that successfully treat more advanced stages of aged-related macular degeneration. However, cost, inconvenience, and the short-term nature of this treatment has lead to researchers looking for more long-term treatment plans. An article by the Wall Street Journal (2020) summarises the current state of macular degeneration research.
Trials of the drug pegcetacoplan, carried out by Apellis Pharmaceuticals, are currently in Phase 2 with 246 participants. Results are promising with studies showing a reduction in the growth rate of aged-related macular degeneration due to injections of the drug. Another drug by the name of Zimura, has had a pivotal trial completed by Iveric Bio showing similar success.
Another promising new treatment being tested, is based in stem-cell research. This stem-cell therapy will have clinical trials in the US following a new approach using cells from the patients themselves, rather than embryonic stem cells. This treatment seeks to solve multiple challenges that researchers have contended with when attempting to treat macular degeneration, with preclinical trials successfully restoring vision in pigs and rats.
Mobile Eye Clinic
Our optometrists at Mobile Eye Clinic are experienced in identifying age-related macular degeneration in patients. Early detection is critical for patients to prevent macular degeneration from advancing into later stages and causing high levels of blindness.
If you'd like to learn more about us, visit our website or call 0402 842 691.
