The Bupa Health Foundation has allocated AUD$497,000 to further research into an Australian developed, world first nanosecond laser technology that could prevent vision loss from age related Macular Degeneration.
Pilot studies have shown the technology can slow or halt the progression of the disease without causing damage to other parts of the eye like other existing laser technologies do.
Success of this study, which is being led by Professor Robyn Guymer at the Centre for Eye Research Australia, will lead to a dramatic reduction in vision loss in our community.
Although it is possible to diagnose, through a simple eye examination, the early signs of AMD, to date there are few, if any, interventions to significantly reduce the risk of disease progression and vision loss. Yet there are often many years in which to intervene with an early intervention strategy if one existed.
Pilot studies have shown the technology can slow or halt the progression of the disease without causing damage to other parts of the eye…
An early intervention treatment would not only reduce health expenditure but would improve the quality of life for a large percentage of the aged community.
The total cost of AMD in Australia is currently estimated to be more than AUD$2.5 billion per year, rising to more than AUD$6 billion per year by 2025 (Access Economics). Current treatments for AMD are among the most expensive on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and have been increasing year on year due to the increasing prevalence.
