The purpose of this study, the Aged Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), is to enroll patients with minor to severe drusen pathology and a) follow the natural progression of macular degeneration; and b) determine if dietary supplements of multivitamins, mineral(s) or multivitamins and minerals delay the progression of the disease. Because patients enrolled will not have optically significant lens capacities, this study will also provide information on development of cataracts in individuals with macular disease. The study will provide new information regarding the progression of macular degeneration and risk factors for cataract formation. Moreover, the effects of dietary supplements will be assessed. The prospective nature of this study, its focus on the progression of drusen pathology, and its evaluation of the effects of dietary supplements make this a unique and much needed study.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Research and Development Contracts (N01)
Project #
N01EY002117-009
Application #
2312049
Study Section
Project Start
1990-03-01
Project End
2000-02-29
Budget Start
1995-02-24
Budget End
1996-02-29
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1995
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Department
Type
DUNS #
073825945
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02114
Seddon, Johanna M; Gensler, Gary; Klein, Michael L et al. (2006) Evaluation of plasma homocysteine and risk of age-related macular degeneration. Am J Ophthalmol 141:201-3