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Vitamin E supplementation and macular degeneration: randomised controlled trial
Hugh R Taylor1, Gabriella Tikellis, Luba D Robman
1Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Locked Bag 8, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 8002. h.taylor@unimelb.edu.au
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|July 6, 2002
Summary
Vitamin E supplementation did not prevent the development or progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study found no significant difference in AMD incidence or progression between vitamin E and placebo groups.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nutritional Science
- Gerontology
Background:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
- Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and its potential role in preventing AMD has been investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of vitamin E supplementation on the incidence and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 1193 healthy participants aged 55-80.
- Participants received either 500 IU of vitamin E or a placebo daily for four years.
- Age-related macular degeneration was assessed using retinal photographs.
Main Results:
- The incidence of early AMD was 8.6% in the vitamin E group versus 8.1% in the placebo group (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.69-1.61).
- The incidence of late AMD was 0.8% in the vitamin E group versus 0.6% in the placebo group (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.67-2.77).
- No consistent differences were observed in secondary outcome measures.
Conclusions:
- Daily vitamin E supplementation does not prevent the development or progression of early or late-stage age-related macular degeneration.
- The findings suggest vitamin E is not effective in AMD prevention or management.