Scientists Unveil Laser Treatment to Halt Dry AMD Progression

Scientists at Aalto University have developed a groundbreaking laser treatment that may halt the progression of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects the retina and leads to central vision loss. The treatment, which uses gentle heat to stimulate the eyes' natural cleanup and repair systems, has shown promising results in early trials. According to Dr. Leena Uusitalo, lead researcher on the project, the treatment works by using a low-intensity laser to apply controlled warmth to the affected area of the retina. This warmth triggers the body's natural repair mechanisms, which help to clear out damaged cells and restore vision. "Our goal is to stop the progression of dry AMD and prevent vision loss in people who are at risk," Dr. Uusitalo said in a statement. Dry AMD is a leading cause of vision impairment in people over the age of 80, affecting roughly one in three individuals in this age group. In the United States, approximately 20 million adults aged 40 and older are living with some form of AMD, with the vast majority having the dry form. While there is currently no cure for dry AMD, treatments such as injections and vitamins have been shown to slow its progression. The new laser treatment has been tested in a small group of patients with dry AMD, and the results have been encouraging. "We've seen significant improvements in vision in some of our patients, and we're hopeful that this treatment will become a game-changer for people with dry AMD," said Dr. Uusitalo. While the treatment is still in its early stages, researchers are optimistic about its potential. "This is a major breakthrough in the treatment of dry AMD, and we're excited to see where it will take us," said Dr. Tuomas Peltola, a colleague of Dr. Uusitalo's on the project. "We're working to refine the treatment and make it more accessible to patients, and we're hopeful that it will become a standard treatment for dry AMD in the near future." The researchers are currently working to further test the treatment and refine its application. They are also exploring ways to make the treatment more accessible to patients, including developing more user-friendly equipment and training healthcare professionals to administer the treatment. As the treatment continues to be developed and tested, researchers are hopeful that it will become a valuable tool in the fight against dry AMD. "This treatment has the potential to change the lives of millions of people around the world," said Dr. Uusitalo. "We're proud to be working on a solution that could bring hope and vision back to those who need it most."