By Jeffrey Perkel
HealthDay Reporter

MONDAY, March 17 (HealthDay News) -- Researchers have pinpointed a biological pathway that may block the blood vessel proliferation and leakiness behind most cases of blindness in the United States.

Though still preliminary, the University of Utah study suggests a new therapeutic target for such ophthalmic diseases as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy, as well as other conditions marked by inflammation and vascular leakiness, including cancer and certain traumatic injuries.

THURSDAY, March 13 (HealthDay News) -- Many Americans are unaware of the warning signs of eye diseases that could blind them if not detected and treated soon enough, a new survey shows.

By Steven Reinberg
EmpowHer's HealthDay Reporter

THURSDAY, Feb. 28 (HealthDay News) -- People suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have twice the risk of dying from heart attack or stroke, Australian researchers report.

The degenerative eye disease is the most common cause of untreatable blindness among older adults in developed countries and affects the center of the retina at the back of the eye, which is essential for tasks such as reading and driving.

Another important vision issue is age-related macular degeneration (AMD/ARMD); however, there are supplements containing zinc, selenium and lutein that seem to have helped some people overcome, or at least slow, AMD. These same supplements might also help eye health in younger adults. Besides prescription meds to aid eye health, there are doctors who practice homeopathic care. More on AMD/ARMD and treatment: All About Vision http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions... Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/macular...

SUNDAY, Feb. 17 (HealthDay News) -- As part of its efforts to educate Americans about age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Prevent Blindness America has declared February Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month.

AMD -- a progressive disease that damages central vision -- costs the U.S. economy $570 million a year in direct costs for outpatient and inpatient care, and prescription drugs, the nonprofit group said.