Age-Related Eye Disease Study--Results
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is a major clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute, one of the Federal government's National Institutes of Health.
The AREDS was designed to learn more about the natural history and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract and to evaluate the effect of high doses of antioxidants and zinc on the progression of AMD and cataract.
Results from the AREDS showed that high levels of antioxidants and zinc significantly reduce the risk of advanced AMD and its associated vision loss. These same nutrients had no significant effect on the development or progression of cataract.
- Press Release-AREDS Results, October 12, 2001
- Learn about how the AREDS was designed
- Frequently Asked Questions about the AREDS
- Are These High Levels of Antioxidants and Zinc Right For You?
- Read more about AMD
- Read more about cataract
In 2006, the NEI has launched the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) to see if a modified combination of vitamins, minerals, and fish oil can further slow the progression of vision loss from AMD. Results from AREDS2 are expected in 2013. Learn more about AREDS2.
Revised: November 2011
