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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A new study suggests that people who are exposed to blue light from the sun and have low antioxidant levels are at greater risk for certain forms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
AMD happens when the area of a retina called the macula deteriorates and a person loses their sharp vision. The retina is vulnerable to damaging effects of light. Researchers say animal and laboratory studies suggest blue light damages the retina, contributing to AMD. Furthermore, antioxidant enzymes such as vitamin C and E and zinc may protect against harmful effects of blue light on the retina.
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For the study, 4,573 older adults had their nutrient levels measured in their blood. Participants were also interviewed about their lifetime sunlight exposure and had photographs taken of their retinas to determine AMD.
Study authors say they did not find an association between blue light exposure and neovascular or early AMD. However, the study did reveal that blue light exposure is associated with AMD in those participants who also had the lowest levels of antioxidants in their blood.
Researchers recommend that we all should take steps to reduce our blue light exposure and more importantly make sure to include an intake of key antioxidants in our diets.
SOURCE: Archives of Ophthalmology, 2008;126:1396-1403
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