(http://www.PreserveMacForte.com) Research seems to show that medication designed to reduce cholesterol levels might have the added benefit of safeguarding the eye from vision impairment, reported Tele management.
According to the article, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision impairment in the elderly. The condition involves the deterioration of the macula, which is the retina’s central portion. Although those with AMD do not actually lose all of their sight, they can get to the point where they are unable to see well enough to read, watch television, drive or do anything else that requires use of central vision.
However, research conducted by a group in Birmingham, Alabama, might offer a glimmer of hope for people living with AMD. The researcher, who compared people who had AMD with people without the eye condition, discovered that people with AMD are more likely to also have hypertension, diabetes or vascular disease. However, people in the group who were living with AMD were 50% less likely to be using statins to reduce their cholesterol level. While the findings are preliminary, further studies will consider if using statin can truly lower the odds of getting AMD, according to the article.
Previous articles have noted that lifestyle changes can help people to lower their odds of getting AMD. Eating lots of leafy green vegetables, consuming fish with omega-3 fatty acids, maintaining an ideal weight, keeping blood pressure normal, avoiding high cholesterol, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and refraining from excessive alcohol intake can help people to lower their odds of getting AMD. It’s also important to go in for annual eye exams. However, people with a family history of AMD are more likely to get the condition themselves, which means that they should consult with their eye doctor to determine what else they can do to lessen their AMD odds.
Reference: http://www.tele-management.ca/2013/08/cholesterol-lowering-drugs-could-prevent-eye-disease/