Investigating macular pigment

The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease of the macula that results in loss of central vision. AMD is the leading cause of age-related blindness in the Western world. It is estimated that AMD affects approximately 417,000 people in the UK and 80,000 people in the Republic of Ireland.

The increasing prevalence of AMD worldwide is largely attributable to increasing longevity and lifestyle changes associated with Western society. It is predicted that the current AMD prevalence figures will double by 2020. People with AMD lose their ability to read, recognise faces, watch television, and drive, and, therefore, lose their independence and quality of life. In addition, the cost of vision loss and visual impairment to society and to health care providers continues to rise, with significant economic implications.