Abstract
Purpose: :
Macular Pigment (MP) may have protective qualities against age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Its major constituents Lutein and zeaxanthin (L&Z) are essential micronutrients. We evaluated the coherence of MP density and distribution with dietary habits, individual predisposition, lifestyle factors and family history.
Methods: :
Prospective, cross sectional study on healthy individuals. Macular Pigment density (MPD) was measured using two wavelength autofluorescence by a modified scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO). Influential factors were noted on our 35-item food frequency questionnaire (ffq-Bern). Coherence analyses were performed graphically and by univariate testing (ANOVA).
Results: :
We included 156 healthy subjects (101 f, 55 m, mean age: 44±19 years). MPD was normally distributed measuring 0.47±0.16 DU (density units). MPD was significantly low in coherence to obesity, positive family history for ARMD, and low daily intake of L&Z (p<0.05). We found tendencies for low MPD when there was low intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and dark iris color, however statistically not significant (p<0.10). High sunlight exposure, smoking, age and gender had no significant influence on MPD (p>0.10).
Conclusions: :
We were able to trace individual factors that are connected to low MP. Screening for these by ffq-Bern may set reference for ARMD protection by nutritional supplementation.
Clinical Trial: :
www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT00494325 KEK 73/05 Ethikkomission Bern
Keywords: macular pigment • nutritional factors • lipids