AMD study stresses human element

More effective communication from healthcare professionals could reduce anxiety for wet age-related macular degeneration patients, a new study has shown.

Treatments need to be allied with careful counselling to ensure patients maintain good psychological health, researchers at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital stressed

Findings published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology demonstrated high levels of undiagnosed anxiety and depression persisting in patients receiving treatment despite improved visual outcomes.

Dr Tariq Aslam, senior lecturer and lead author of the study, said: ‘There have been amazing scientific achievements in diagnosing and treating serious eye diseases, such as wet AMD, which have revolutionised our ability to reverse life-changing vision loss. However, we must not forget the human element when applying all this to ensure all our patients can reap the full benefits of this cutting-edge science.’