Age-Related Eye Disease Study

Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is a clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health in the United States. The study is designed to investigate the natural history and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract and to evaluate the effect of high doses of antioxidants and zinc on the progression of these two diseases.

Background

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study was initiated in 1992. The study was designed to understand the epidemiology and pathogenesis of age-related eye diseases and to evaluate the effect of vitamins and minerals on the progression of these diseases.

Study Design

The AREDS was a multi-center, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial. The study included 3640 participants aged 55 to 80 years at enrollment. Participants were followed for an average of 6.3 years. The study design included a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Results

The results of the AREDS showed that high-dose antioxidants and zinc significantly reduced the risk of advanced AMD and its associated vision loss. These supplements did not provide a significant benefit for patients with cataract.

AREDS Formulation

The AREDS formulation is a combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, and copper. The formulation is recommended for patients at high risk of developing advanced AMD.

AREDS2

Following the original AREDS, a second study, AREDS2, was initiated in 2006 to evaluate the effects of other nutritional supplements on the progression of AMD and cataract.

See Also

• Age-related macular degeneration
• Cataract
• Antioxidants
• Zinc