A large percentage of the aging population especially those over 65 suffer from age related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease that causes loss of vision and blindness. Scientists have now found that excess zinc could be one of the causes of AMD.
They found large amount of zinc in the eye tissue samples of those having AMD. The primary reason for this is that the aging patients are prescribed zinc supplements to boost their immune systems.
Macular degeneration is a medical condition in which the center of the inner lining of the eye, known as the macula area of the retina, suffers thinning, atrophy, and in some cases bleeding.
According to Jane Flinn, Mason professor of psychology:
Because earlier findings have shown that zinc contributes to deposit formation in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, we were prompted to test the theory that zinc might be involved in deposit formation in AMD.
While a study by National Eye Institute found that high doses of zinc supplements combined with antioxidants may actually promote the continued health of the retina and tissues surrounding the retina, these findings suggest the opposite.
The team hopes that the findings could make doctors take a more informed approach before prescribing zinc supplements to patients.
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