1. A new dimension
to Ophthalmic Lens Coatings
Lens Treatments with aLens Treatments with a
Measure of Health ProtectionMeasure of Health Protection
HOYA Vision Care Canada
2.
3. BATTLING the BLUESBATTLING the BLUES
The effects of blue light on our eye healthThe effects of blue light on our eye health
HOYA Vision Care Canada
4. ∗ Light – High Energy Visible Light - “Blue Light”
∗ What is it? From where does it come?
∗ Light and the Human Eye
∗ The Issues Associated with HEVL
∗ The Solutions
∗ HOYA Recharge– technical profile
∗ Summary
Agenda
5. ∗ Visible Light Spectrum: ~ 380nm to 780nm (EN ISO 13666)
∗ The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be
detected by the human eye.
Light - Some Basic Definitions
Higher Energy Lower Energy
6. ∗ What is HEVL?
∗ The shortest and highest energy violet-blue range from
380 – 500nm within the visible spectrum,
∗ Also called “high-energy blue light” or simply “blue light”
High Energy Visible Light
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
7. ∗ Where does HEVL light come from?
Sources of “Blue Light”
8. High Energy Visible Light
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
Key Issues with HEVL:
1.May be disruptive to natural circadian rhythm
(sleep-wake cycle or your internal clock)
2.Easily scattered creating haze that reduces contrast
and decreases sharpness and clarity of vision
3.Linked to lens and retinal damage and AMD with
accumulation over time
11. ∗ Light at night is bad for your health, and exposure to blue
light emitted by electronics and energy-efficient light bulbs
may be especially so. ”
Issue#1: Effect on Circadian Rhythm
12. ∗ Circadian rhythm is
controlled by Melatonin release.
∗ Blue light (460~480nm) is a powerful
suppressor of Melatonin1
.
∗ When Melatonin is suppressed after dark
our natural sleep rhythm is disrupted.
The Dark Side of Blue Light
Melatonin - hormone secreted
by the pineal gland (Brain) also
known as the “hormone of
darkness” – plays a role in the
regulation of the sleep-wake
cycle by causing drowsiness.
1. Different wavelengths cited depending upon study. Falchi et al, Journal of Environmental Management
10/2011; 92(10):2714-22. reported 440-500 nm suppresses Melatonin.
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
For Circadian Rhythm
13. The Dark Side of Blue Light
In June 2012 the American Medical Association issued a policy
recognizing "that exposure to excessive blue light at night,
including extended use of various electronic media, can disrupt
sleep or exacerbate sleep disorders, especially in children and
adolescents."
14. Strategies to Protect against HEVL
Blue Absorbing Lenses
Amber, Orange, Green, Physical
Screens
placed on
top of device.
Computer software that
modifies the emitted
spectrum linked to the
computers’ clock.
Low Blue
Light Bulbs
that modify
the emitted
spectrum at
low energy
Yellow
tinted blue
absorbing
IOLs since
1990’s
16. HOYA CONFIDENTIAL 16
Cell Phone
Game
PC
TV
Blue light from digital
equipment
Light Spectrum from Today’s Devices
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
LCD Peak
17. ∗ Human Eyes are “myopic”
to blue light
∗ Higher point spread function
more blur.
Issue #2: Reduced Contrast and
Decreased Sharpness
∗ Blue light is refracted more than
other colours
∗ In a healthy human eye, the
yellow pigments of the fovea
protect us from this phenomena.
18. Digital Eye Strain—Is it a Blue light issue?
“digital eye strain is the
most common computer-
related repetitive strain
injury, surpassing carpal
tunnel and tendonitis. 1
”
1. The Vision Council : Screens, Phones, Tablets and More: Keeping your eyes safe in a digital Age, 2012.
Reduction of blue light will improve contrast and
sharpness which may improve visual comfort, however …
There is no proven link between reduction of blue light
and alleviation of symptoms related to Digital Eye Strain.
Targeted lens designs (i.e. Nulux Active 5/8 and TACT) can
support the visual requirements in use of such devices.
19. “In addition to UV radiation, short blue visible light
(400-440 nm) is a risk factor for the adult human retina.
This wavelength of light is not essential for sight and not
necessary for a circadian rhythm response. For those over 50
years old, it would be of value to remove these wavelengths
of light …”
Issue #3: Damage to the retina
Source:
Eye & Contact Lens: Science & Clinical Practice:
July 2011 - Volume 37 - Issue 4 - pp 246-249
Ultraviolet Radiation as a Risk Factor for Cataract and Macular Degeneration
Roberts, Joan E Ph.D.
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
Most Damaging
20. ∗ The cornea generally blocks UV light below
295nm from reaching the human lens.
∗ The lens filters out UVB above 295 and UVA
(315 – 400nm) and shorter wavelengths
(HEVL) of blue light from reaching the retina1
.
Light and the Healthy Human Eye
From 40 years -
the photo-protective
system breaks down and
lens yellowing
(opacification) begins
1. Joan E. Robers, Photobiology of the HUMAN LENS, Fordham University, American Society of Photobiology
2. M. Rozanowska et al., Photobiology of the RETINA, Cardiff Vision Institute, American Society of Photobiology.
“Overall the transmission of visible light is
significantly reduced in older lenses,
especially in the blue region of the
spectrum.” 2
21. ∗ Despite natural defences, visible light, including blue light,
reaches the retina and has been linked to retinal damage
∗ Beaver Dam Eye Study showed increased exposure to light
in Teens, 20s, 30s increased onset age of AMD by 10
years, effectively doubling the chances of blindness during
lifetime.*
Retinal Damage and HEVL
http://www.bdeyestudy.org/
* Tomany, S., Cruickshanks, K., Klein, R., Klein, B., Knudtson, M. Sunlight and the 10-year incidence of
age-related maculopathy: the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Arch Ophthalmol. (2004) 122(5), 750-757,
Correction (2005) 123(3), 362.
22. ∗ The eye has natural defenses against UV and HEVL
∗ Despite these, accumulated exposure to HEVL may
contribute to eye damage (Lens and Retina),
∗ Long term studies and animal studies suggest a link
between HEVL and eye damage but we cannot say that
HEVL causes eye damage,
∗ The higher energy/shorter wavelengths (380-440nm) of the
visible spectrum are associated with eye damage.
Key Point Summary: Retinal Damage
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
Most Damaging
24. A NEW ophthalmic lens treatment that provides
visual comfort and a measure of protection from
Blue Light risks.
Recharge adds a new “health-protection” dimension
to the benefits ascribed to lens coatings and offers
compelling new reason to apply lens treatments.
What is it….
HOYA Recharge
25. What it does...
∗ Reduces blue light that reaches the eyes day and night
∗ Enhances contrast for visual comfort
∗ Helps protect against accumulated potential harmful affects
of High Energy Visible Light (Blue Light)
∗ Provides familiar HOYA AR quality on physical attributes
(adhesion, scratch resistance, longevity, cleanability)
∗ Reduces glare and reflections
HOYA Recharge
26. 30% reduction in
HEVL (Blue Light)
Recharge–
Cuts HEVL (Blue Light) by 30%
± 3%
% reduction of Blue light varies
slightly by material.
Phoenix > 1.60 > 1.67 > 1.50
(* 1.50 has UV applied)
(Poly blue light reduction is only 20%)
* Data on file: HOYA Coporation
27. Blue Light
%T %R
Most Damaging LCD Peak
For Circadian Rhythm
Recharge Reducing –
30% of HEVL (Blue Light)
380 400 420 440 460 480 500
28. ∗ How does it work?
∗ By reflecting blue light
∗ Manipulation of the thicknesses of the layers
in the “multi-coat layer”
∗ Material used in the layers.
Mechanism of Action
30. ∗ LifeStyle Approach--
Based on device usage
∗ COMFORT
∗ People with High usage of LCD devices; smartphones, tablets, computers
∗ Gamers, night owls, Students,
∗ Overexposed to sunlight**
Which type of patients?
∗ Health and Wellness Approach--
Based on professional judgement
∗ PREVENTION
∗ Patients with AMD risk factors, including
∗ Family history,
∗ Light eye colour,
∗ Measured low macular pigment (MPOD)
∗ Smoking
∗ Obesity
∗ Match Recharge with
∗ Nulux Active
∗ TACT
** also an identified risk factor
31. What about Kids ?
LifeStyle
Will reduction of Blue light at
night help kids get a better
night’s rest?
Health and Wellness
Reduction of long-term
accumulation HEVL may reduce
risks of retinal problems
In June 2012 the American Medical Association issued a policy
recognizing "that exposure to excessive blue light at night, including
extended use of various electronic media, can disrupt sleep or
exacerbate sleep disorders, especially in children and adolescents."
32. Recharge vs. HOYA AR
HOYA AR
(HVVP) RECHARGE
Oleophobic / Cleanability
Substrate Matched
Physical Characteristics
(Scratch Resistance, adhesion, longevity)
Blue Light reduced insignificant
Reflections, Anti-glare properties
Residual colour Green Blue
33. Availability
Material Availability Style Availability
1.50 ( included with UV block) iD Mystyle (except 1.50)
1.53 Phoenix iD LifeStyle
1.60 ARRAY
1.67 iQ (Summit, Amp, SV, FT28)
NOT AVAILABLE on:
SunTech, Vantage, XtrActive
Transitions is available
Nulux Active 5/8
(tints on Recharge not
recommended but allowed) TACT
Protegrity iD
34. Summary
∗ Recharge reduces blue light by 30% in the HEVL spectrum
∗ Provides a measure of protection from the risks of HEVL
∗ May be prescribed for HEVL reduction to reduce long-term
risk of Blue light associated with retinal damage and
cataracts
∗ Increases contrast and visual sharpness
∗ Suitable for lifestyles with high HEVL exposure
∗ High LCD device users, gamers, students
∗ Reduces reflections and glare
35. Recharge Lens Treatment with aRecharge Lens Treatment with a
Measure of Health ProtectionMeasure of Health Protection
Glossary of terms and FAQ
available
Thank YouThank You
36. ∗ Visible Light 380 – 780 nm
The spectrum of electromagnetic energy which is generally detectable by the
human eye.
∗ High Energy Visible Light (HEVL):
Light largely within the visible spectrum that has the shortest wavelengths (380 -500 nm)
and the highest energy. Sometimes referred to “Blue Light”
∗ Blue Blocking Lenses:
yellow/red/amber lenses that block blue light by absorption (rather than
reflection of blue light)
∗ Melatonin:
A hormone secreted by the pineal gland(Brain) also known as the “hormone of
darkness” – plays a role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. Melanin is
suppressed by blue light in the range of 460-480nm. When suppressed it fights
sleep, and may lead to conditions associated with lack of sleep.
Definition of Terms
37. ∗ How much “blue light” does Recharge reflect?
Recharge reflects about 30% over the HEVL range (380 – 500nm)
∗ If Recharge only reflects 30% - why bother? Does it do any good at all?
The scientific evidence linking blue light to a number of problems, including
retinal damage (AMD), sleep disorders and other systemic disease is growing.
Recharge is an easy way to reduce the aggregate affect of potentially harmful
HEVL and still provide substantial benefits of an AR coating.
∗ Is the link between blue light and AMD proven?
Identification of a link or association does not mean that we can conclude a
causal effect. There is ample scientific evidence to indicate that there is a link,
but we cannot say there that blue light is a cause of AMD or retinal damage.
More research is required.
FAQs
38. ∗ Does Recharge block “good” blue light?
“Good” blue light is referred to that part of the visible light spectrum that is
necessary for natural circadian rhythm. Good blue light contributes to the day
time suppressing of an important hormone (Melatonin) that regulates our
sleep/wake cycle. At night with darkness, and light removed, the hormone is
released and induces sleepiness in a natural way. Recharge has no effective
impact on the range of blue light that influences this important hormone. (i.e.
blue light passes through allowing day time suppression )
“good blue light” has a bad side. If our eyes are continually exposed to blue
light before bed time, the hormone that induces natural sleep may not be
released (or continues to be suppressed) and we remain alert and possibly
restless. Either way, the light influencing this hormone is not appreciably
affected by Recharge. Behaviour changes and physical devices like screens
etc. may be necessary to avoid the influence of blue light on sleep.
FAQ
39. ∗ Does Recharge AR affect scotopic (low light) vision tasks like night driving?
In a review of recent studies, clinical studies indicate that blue blocking IOLs had no
impact difference in performance on blue blocking and non-blocking IOLs on Scotopic
vision performance. It is reasonable to assume that blue light reduction of Recharge will
have no impact on night vision.
∗ Will Recharge help my kids sleep better at night if they view computers before
bedtime?
Blue light is important in the control of the sleep-wake cycle (Circadian rhythm). There is a
small and reduction of the blue light in the range that is associated with this cycle, but
there is no clinical evidence that this small reduction will affect the sleep/wake cycle.
∗ There are higher reflections on Recharge compared to HOYA ARs. Will Recharge
be available with less reflections similar to HI VISION VP for example?
There will always be a compromises between a coating’s ability to reduce HEVL and
reflections. We believe that Recharge meets this compromise in an effective manner. If
patients want a purely cosmetic approach with absolute minimal reflections, then EX3 is
recommended.
FAQ
Editor's Notes
It used to be that understanding light was a simple matter. You may remember from grade school, ROY G BIV… (click on rainbow for a short video) Ah,,,, a simpler time. But today, what was once simple is more complex. Your patients are reading, with increased frequency, about the dangers of blue light…. So, prepare to learn about visible light in a different way, The subject is complex and I hope to give you a clear picture on this topic. and, at the same time… open your mind to the promise of what ophthalmic lens coatings can do for you and your patients. I am suggesting a “paradigm shift” -- I wasn’t that long ago that the attitudes about sun, sunbathing were completely different than they are today. If you are 40+ you recall, that “sunbathing” meant slathering in oil and using tin foil to concentrate the rays of the sun, to bake your epidermis into a perfect golden brown. Today, we protect ourselves from the sun, with SPF 80, and wide brimmed hats… What was “scientific discovery” 20 years ago is accepted fact today.
Blue light—my first exposure on the topic was a David Suzuki episode of The Nature of Things airing in December last year and since then I have read various news articles in the media. While I am not expecting you to become Photo- biologists, I do want to help you to become familiar and comfortable when talking about the dangers of blue light with patients.
The Visible Light Spectrum Is part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be detected by the human eye. In wavelength, this is defined as 380 to 780 nm by the ISO 13666 which is the Ophthalmic optics standards published by the International Standards Organization. There are slightly different definitions depending upon the source. (390 to 760nm) The pure colours of the spectrum are defined by the wavelength. Of course, not all species of animals have the same visible spectrum (Bees – for example – can apparently see ultraviolet wavelengths and snakes can “see” infrared light. Even among humans, there is also some variability. UV Light (for reference). UVC - 100 – 280 UVB - 280 – 315 UVA – 315-400
Yes, blue light is found in sun light Blue light high energy radiation also comes from smartphones, computer screens, tablets….most all back lit screens which are held closer to the eye than 40 cm, intensifying the effect the blue light has on the eyes. And as we have move away from incandescent light bulbs towards the more energy efficient bulbs shown here we have exposed ourselves to more blue light.
I want to explore three key issues associated with Blue light
I want to take that range and divide it into 3 parts. Segment 1 represents those wavelengths of blue light that help regulate our internal clocks-the sleep/wake cycle. Segment 2 represents the wavelengths of blue light that most modern devices emit Segment 3 are the shortest wavelengths and thought to be most damaging
Now let’s address the first segment of blue light, the one that involves our sleep wake cycle.
Medical Associations (American Medical Assoc.) and respected advocates, like Harvard Health Publications, are increasingly recognizing the potential risks of blue light and the affect of light at night.
The Dark Side of Blue Light It is a well known phenomena that Melatonin, a hormone released in brain, plays a key role in our natural circadian (sleep – wake) cycle. Blue light in this third area of wavelength, is a powerful suppressor of melatonin. In man’s natural evolution, the light of day keeps melatonin suppressed and when the sun sets and darkness descends upon us, melatonin is released – which induces our natural sleep patterns. In today’s unnaturally light world after dark, which is further bombarded by all sorts of electronic devices that emit blue light, melatonin is further suppressed, which serves to delay the onset of our natural sleep time. There is a large body of emerging evidence to suggest that melatonin suppression by HEVL may be a causal contributor to chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer and obesity. ================================ The study, titled "Limiting the impact of light pollution on human health, environment and stellar visibility" by Fabio Falchi, Pierantonio Cinzano, Christopher D. Elvidge, David M. Keith and Abraham Haim, was recently published in the Journal of Environmental Management. The fact that "white" artificial light (which is actually blue light on the spectrum, emitted at wavelengths of between 440-500 nanometers) suppresses the production of melatonin in the brain's pineal gland is already known. Also known is the fact that suppressing the production of melatonin, which is responsible, among other things, for the regulation of our biological clock, causes behavior disruptions and health problems. In this study, conducted by astronomers, physicists and biologists from ISTIL- Light Pollution Science and Technology Institute in Italy, the National Geophysical Data Center in Boulder, Colorado, and the University of Haifa, researchers for the first time examined the differences in melatonin suppression in a various types of light bulbs, primarily those used for outdoor illumination, such as streetlights, road lighting, mall lighting and the like. Read more at: http://medicalxpress.com/news/2011-09-white-suppresses-body-production-melatonin.html#jCp
The trend is causing increasing concern in the medical community based on mounting evidence that the type of light produced by our portable electronic screens can contribute to sleep loss. In June 2012 the American Medical Association issued a policy recognizing "that exposure to excessive blue light at night, including extended use of various electronic media, can disrupt sleep or exacerbate sleep disorders, especially in children and adolescents."
So, what are the strategies to protect against the modern bombardment of blue light ? Well.. We could, I presume, forsake our modern conveniences and return to a simpler life of the dark ages. OR we might avail ourselves of the any number of products spawned in a number of areas to protect the eyes from over-exposure to HEVL. Such as… Absorbing Lenses (Blue Blocking Lenses) – not usually suitable for indoor use, but may be rx’d in high risk circumstances. Note – that brands like Oakley and Maui Jim do not cut blue light appreciably. Blue Blocking lenses do alter colour perception Computer Software that adjust the light spectrum emitted. Physical screens for TV’s and LCD screens. Low Blue light bulbs of all shapes and sizes.
Now let’s look at that second area of blue light wavelengths we are exposed to, the area where most computer screens, laptops, smartphones emit blue light.
And if you look at the graph, it shows that the amount and specific wavelengths of blue light from these devices. This makes your eyes a target for the effects of their energy. With most of these devices, you are holding them closer to your eyes because of smaller font sizes, further affecting the retina and reducing the contrast of the images you are looking at.
The eyes are myopic, what does this mean? I am myopic and my eye focuses light in front of my retina. You should know that our lens focuses each colour at a different point and the position blue light is refracted causes a higher point spread function which creates more blur. In the healthy human eye we have yet again another natural defence, and the yellow pigments of the fovea protect us from this phenomena But as we learned earlier, as we age this natural deteriorates leaving us with reduced contrast and sharpness. http://www.yorku.ca/eye/chroaber.htm source of diagram.
Set screens down 15-20 degrees, Link of blue to digital Eye Strain - THERE IS NO PROVEN LINK between Digital Eye Strain and blue light. However , Reduction of blue light will improve contrast and may improve visual comfort. Specific Lens designs (i.e. Nulux Active 5/8, and PALs) can support the visual requirements in use of such devices.
AMD is Age related macular degeneration. The macula is the central area of the retina, which provides the most detailed central vision. AMD is basically reducing the vision and can even lead to blindness. Some researchers found that visible blue light can increase the risk of AMD FOR damage to occur the light must be absorbed -- In order for a photochemical reaction to occur, the light must be absorbed and the human eye has unique filtering characteristics that determine in which area of the eye each wavelength of light will be absorbed. This is a natural protection. UV radiation below 295 nm is filtered from reaching the lens by the human cornea. This means that the shortest, most energetic wavelengths of light (all UV-C and some UV-B) are filtered out before they reach the human lens. The remaining UV light is absorbed by the crystalline lens, but the exact wavelength range depends upon age.
The cornea generally blocks UVC (100-280nm) and UVB (280-315NM) light from reaching the human lens. A healthy young lens filters out UVA and shorter wavelengths (HEVL) of blue light from reaching the cornea. (UVA 315-400nm) - note sometimes UVA is defined as 315 - 390 As we age (about 40 years) , the photobiology of the human lens changes. In a young adult protective compounds (Chromophores) harmlessly absorb UV light. As we reach middle age, these chromophores change their character and start to release the energy they absorb through harmful oxygen particles (Free radicals) which cause yellowing of the lens and ultimately opacification of the lens (i.e. Cataract). The proteins within the lens become compromised. When the lens function is compromised more harmful light can reach the retina.
SOURCE: The Macular Degeneration Epidemic. Dr. Gary Morgan. 9. Fletcher, A., Bentham, G., et al. Sunlight Exposure, Antioxidants, and Age-Related Macular Degeneration, EUREYE. Arch Ophthalmol. October 2008; 126(10):1396-1403. In yet another study, the European Eye Study (EUREYE), it was found that a combination of blue light exposure and low plasma concentrations of antioxidants, particularly the macular carotenoids, was associated with an increased incidence of developing AMD9..
Beaver Dam Eye Study is a long term eye study conducted in Beaver Dam Wisconsin. The Beaver Dam Eye Study is funded by the National Eye Institute. The purpose of the Study is to collect information on the prevalence and incidence of age-related cataract, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, which are all common eye diseases causing loss of vision in an aging population. The study was designed to discover (or detect) causes of these conditions. The study also has examined other aging problems, such as decline in overall health and quality of life and development of kidney and heart disease. The Beaver Dam Eye Study completed its 20-year follow-up at the end of 2010. The purposes of the follow-up were to observe the long-term course of cataract, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, other retinal diseases, and to monitor the decline in vision as the Eye Study participants age. We examined the relationship of long-term exposures (e.g., blood pressure, lipid levels, exposure to UV-light, and medications) to these eye conditions.
There are numerous studies and publications documenting the effect of Blue light on our ocular health
But this researcher sums up the current state of knowledge simply. Viewing this conclusion, we want to reduce the amount of blue light in these shorter wavelengths as much as possible.
HOYA’s answer to Blue Light risk is a new lens treatment: Recharge. This has the potential to yet close another gap for our independent eye care professional clients in today’s competitive environment.
Let’s introduce you to Recharge and exactly what it is… Recharge is a NEW anti-reflective treatment that provides visual comfort and a measure of protection from Blue Light risks. RECHARGE– adds a new “Wellness” dimension to the benefits that are typically ascribed to AR coatings. In addition to the attributes you do and should expect from a HOYA AR coating… great adhesion, scratch resistance, longevity and easy cleanability provided by the HOYA ViewProtect oleophobic top coat.
The Features of Recharge AR are: Reduction of the blue light that reaches the eyes, during day time and night time Enhances contrast visual comfort Helps protect against the accumulated potential harmful affects of HEVL In addition to the attributes you do and should expect from a HOYA AR coating… great adhesion, scratch resistance, longevity and easy cleanability provided by the HOYA ViewProtect oleophobic top coat.
Recharge reduces the most in the most damaging area to the retina. This is critical for prevention according to the experts.
Recharge works on the reflection principle
AMD Risk Factors – American Academy of Ophthalmology. Although researchers do not have a definitive picture of what causes AMD, aging processes are clearly important. A number of additional factors that may put a person at greater risk for developing AMD have been identified. Age – By definition, age is the greatest risk factor for AMD. An estimated, 1.75 million Americans age 40 years and older have advanced dry or wet AMD. The prevalence increases dramatically with age, with more than 15 percent of Caucasian women 80 years and older having advanced AMD.34 To ensure early detection of all age-related eye conditions, people over the age of 40 are encouraged to see an ophthalmologist for comprehensive eye exams every two to four years. Genetics - New evidence exists that some cases of AMD are hereditary. Recent reports have shown that as many as 43% of patients with AMD have a genetic mutation in the Complement factor H gene.17-19 Complement Factor H is involved in the control of inflammation in the body and those patients with this genetic trait may be at higher risk from inflammatory induced damage to the retinal pigment epithelium. AMD may be a group of diseases that require different approaches to treatment. For that reason, because early stages of the disease are often asymptomatic and because both wet and dry AMD can progress, everyone over the age of 50, even those without a family history of the disease, should have their eyes checked regularly. Environmental and Behavioral Risk Factors Several factors have been identified as having a possible relationship to AMD. Cigarette smoking – Studies have found that current and former smokers had as much as twice the risk of developing AMD as non-smokers. Although long-term advantages of smoking cessation are not yet known, people with AMD may be well advised to stop smoking. Exposure to secondhand smoke also contributes to the risk of developing AMD. High blood pressure – Severe AMD has been associated with moderate to severe elevations in blood pressure, according to a recent epidemiological study, which found that patients with wet (exudative or neovascular) AMD, the more severe form, were more than four times as likely to have moderate or severe hypertension than patients without AMD. Additionally, cardiovascular disease, in general, appears to be associated with increased risk of AMD. Overexposure in sunlight – It has been suggested that exposure to sunlight might damage the macula and cause AMD. Studies to support this theory have been inconclusive thus far and additional studies are under way. Nonetheless, ophthalmologists recommend protecting eyes from the sun and other UV light for a variety of benefits. Diet – Research on the link between diet and AMD risk has shown that intake of a variety of food types may alter the risk of developing AMD. For example, high consumption of linoleic acid, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and vegetable fats – fats commonly found in many snack foods – was associated with double the risk of developing wet AMD. Researchers also found that people with limited intake of linoleic acid and who ate two or more servings of fish that is high in Omega 3 fatty acids per week had a lower risk for developing AMD. Other studies have shown that intake of fruits may reduce the risk of AMD, as would diets rich in carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, found in dark green leafy vegetables and some berries. These data are not conclusive, however, and may not translate into recommendations. Estrogen and early menopause – Studies suggest a higher incidence of AMD in women, particularly in women who experience earlier onset of menopause, which suggests that estrogen may play a protective role in minimizing AMD risk. Other Possible Risk Factors In addition to the above risk factors, researchers are looking at hyperopia (farsightedness), light skin and eye coloring, cataract surgery, high blood cholesterol levels and race as possible factors that increase the risk of developing AMD.
Recharge will not be effective in getting more sleep at night- closing the computer and shutting off devices is best, limiting kids’ exposure before bed hours will help. What Recharge can do is reduce long-term accumulation of HEVL which may help reduce risks!
I do have copies of a glossary of terms and FAQ on blue light and Recharge available at the HOYA booth #420. I also have a gift for each of you so brave to tackle this complex topic so early in the morning. I invite all of you to try our Recharge at Nocharge! Please see me for a voucher that you can redeem through your Hoya lab. Thank you for your attention and I hope to see you at the booth later this afternoon.
