Seminar: November 18, 2006

On November 18, 2006, Austin Retina Associates and the Macula Vision Research Foundation (MVRF) teamed up to present a seminar on age related macular degeneration. Free and open to the public, the seminar, part of a well-attended series, focused on the genetic links to macular degeneration.

The program was introduced by Lea S. Bramnick, Executive Director of MVRF, which is based in West Conshohocken, outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Ms. Bramnick explained that the mission of MVRF is to fund research into the cause, prevention, treatment, and ultimately the cure for macular degeneration is aided by the fact that one hundred percent of all dollars raised go toward this goal, as the organization is entirely underwritten for all administrative expenses.

After Ms. Bramnick, Dr. C. Armitage Harper talked about the newest research and treatments for macular degeneration. Then Dr. Jack W. Pierce addressed the possibility of a hereditary link to this disease, which was of particular interest to the audience.

People with advanced macular degeneration often have to be accompanied by a helper when they travel, because they are unable to drive when their vision is severely impaired. Often, these companions are their adult children, and both the patient and the caregiver are keenly interested in the genetic links and the possibilities for prevention.

Dr. Pierce addressed this concern for family members, and talked about the need to share tips for prevention with children and grandchildren. He said that people have to know how to protect their eyes from all types of harm, and that everyone should always wear sunglasses and hats with wide brims. He also said that healthy eating habits and not smoking can contribute to the prevention of macular degeneration.